In a major transfer development, Manchester United are edging closer to landing Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli, in a deal that could see Danish forward Rasmus Højlund heading to Italy on loan.
While the agreement has not yet been finalized, renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported that negotiations are well underway and progressing positively.
Currently on loan at Turkish side Galatasaray, Osimhen has been in incredible form this season, netting 26 goals in 30 matches across all competitions.
His goal-scoring prowess has once again drawn the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Manchester United now emerging as frontrunners for his signature.
United see Osimhen as the ideal solution to their persistent attacking struggles and are keen to strengthen their frontline ahead of the new season.
On the other hand, Rasmus Højlund, who joined Manchester United from Atalanta last summer for a hefty €85 million fee, has not quite lived up to expectations.
Though he has shown flashes of potential, he has scored only 24 goals in 82 appearances — a return that has raised concerns about his consistency and readiness to lead the line for a top Premier League side.
Napoli, however, see value in the 21-year-old’s talent and believe a move to Serie A could help unlock his full potential.
The Italian club is reportedly interested in taking Højlund on loan, possibly with an option or obligation to buy in the future.
The financial structure of the Osimhen-Højlund deal remains undisclosed, but reports suggest that Manchester United are willing to include a significant cash fee in addition to Højlund’s temporary move to sweeten the deal.
While Osimhen has a release clause set at €130 million, the clubs are said to be working toward a more balanced and agreeable fee to make the transfer feasible.
For Manchester United, this is a strategic push to resolve their attacking inefficiencies.
Osimhen not only brings proven quality in front of goal but also offers experience in high-pressure scenarios, having played a crucial role in Napoli’s Serie A title win in the 2022–23 season.
His combination of strength, pace, and clinical finishing could be exactly what United need to compete at the highest level under their new tactical direction.
Meanwhile, Napoli would gain a young, athletic striker with considerable upside.
Højlund, despite his struggles, still has room to grow, and Napoli’s system could give him the environment he needs to thrive.
This potential swap deal is one of the most intriguing and bold moves of the upcoming transfer window — and one that could reshape the ambitions of both clubs.
