Manchester United are reportedly preparing to make a new striker their top priority in the upcoming transfer window, following Rasmus Højlund’s ongoing struggles in front of goal.
The 21-year-old Danish forward, who arrived at Old Trafford with high expectations, has only managed to score three goals in the Premier League this season.
This disappointing return has forced United to reconsider their attacking options, and manager Ruben Amorim is said to be weighing up the possibility of moving Højlund on this summer.
Initially, Amorim had his sights set on Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres as a potential replacement. However, the Swedish striker appears more interested in joining a Champions League club — something Manchester United may not be able to offer, depending on the outcome of their current campaign. With that in mind, United have now shifted focus to a more realistic and exciting target: Nigerian international Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen, who has been in sensational form this season, has emerged as the club’s primary transfer target. Despite his high wage demands — which previously attracted attention from Saudi Arabian clubs and cooled Chelsea’s interest — recent reports suggest United have made a breakthrough in negotiations.
According to Turkish journalist Serdar Ali Çelikler, Manchester United have agreed personal terms with the 25-year-old striker. Now, the only remaining obstacle is finalising the transfer fee with Napoli.
Osimhen currently has a €75 million release clause in his contract, but there are signs Napoli might be open to accepting a slightly lower amount. While Juventus are also keeping tabs on the player, Napoli are reluctant to sell to a domestic rival, which gives United a stronger position in negotiations.
Osimhen is currently on loan at Turkish side Galatasaray, who would love to keep him permanently. However, the Turkish club is unlikely to match the financial muscle that Manchester United can bring to the table.
This season, Osimhen has scored an incredible 29 goals and provided six assists in 34 matches across all competitions, making him one of the most lethal forwards in Europe.
For Ruben Amorim, bringing in Osimhen would represent a huge statement of intent and could transform United’s attacking line.
However, much still depends on how United finish the season, especially in terms of European qualification.
In case the Osimhen move doesn’t materialise, the club has lined up backup options including Manchester City’s young striker Liam Delap and Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Amorim is clearly shifting the club’s transfer strategy, aiming for a more consistent and clinical attack, and Osimhen’s arrival could also signal the end of the road for players like Anthony Martial, Mason Greenwood, and Jadon Sancho, as United look to build a more dominant front line.
