Manchester United’s pursuit of a world-class striker has taken an intriguing turn, with reports emerging from Italy that the club has tabled an offer to Napoli for Victor Osimhen. According to Daniel Longo of Calciomercato, the Red Devils have proposed a part-exchange deal worth €40 million plus Rasmus Hojlund in a bid to secure the services of the Nigerian forward. This potential move has sparked intense debate among fans and pundits alike, as United look to address their glaring attacking deficiencies under the stewardship of manager Ruben Amorim.
A Disappointing Season and the Need for Change
It’s no secret that Manchester United’s 2024/25 campaign has been nothing short of disastrous. The club currently languishes in 14th place in the Premier League, having already suffered 12 defeats and boasting a negative goal difference. Only five teams in the division have scored fewer goals than the Reds, a damning indictment of their struggles in the final third.
Rasmus Hojlund, who arrived at Old Trafford last summer with high expectations, has failed to live up to his billing. The Danish striker, alongside fellow forward Joshua Zirkzee, has managed just five league goals between them this season. Longo’s report describes Hojlund as a “disappointment,” with Amorim reportedly “not satisfied” with the 22-year-old’s performances. It’s clear that the Portuguese tactician is seeking a significant upgrade in the striker department as he looks to implement his preferred 3-4-2-1 system effectively.
Victor Osimhen: A Proven Goal-Scorer
In stark contrast to Hojlund’s struggles, Victor Osimhen has been in scintillating form since joining Galatasaray on loan in the summer. The Nigerian international has netted 14 goals in just 19 appearances in the Super Lig, showcasing his predatory instincts and ability to deliver on the biggest stages. Osimhen’s exploits in Turkey have only reinforced his reputation as one of Europe’s most lethal strikers, a status he first cemented during Napoli’s Serie A title-winning campaign in 2022/23.
However, Osimhen’s loan spell in Istanbul is set to conclude at the end of the season, and he will return to Napoli, where a £65 million release clause in his contract will become active. This has put several elite clubs on high alert, with Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester United all reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
The Financial Constraints at Old Trafford
While Osimhen’s arrival would undoubtedly bolster United’s attacking options, the club’s precarious financial situation complicates matters. The Glazers’ ownership has left the Reds with limited spending power, and Amorim is acutely aware that funds must be allocated wisely to address multiple areas of concern. Right wing-back, central midfield, and centre-forward are all positions in need of reinforcement if the 40-year-old manager is to successfully implement his tactical vision.
This is where the proposed part-exchange deal comes into play. By offering Hojlund as a makeweight, United hope to drive down the overall cost of signing Osimhen, enabling them to allocate resources elsewhere. Napoli’s long-standing interest in Hojlund, dating back to his time at Atalanta, could work in United’s favour. Despite his underwhelming spell in England, the 22-year-old retains admirers in Italy, and the Serie A giants may view him as a viable project to reignite his career.
The Mechanics of the Deal
Longo’s report suggests that United’s offer of €40 million plus Hojlund values the Nigerian striker at around £33 million – roughly half of his reported release clause. This represents a significant saving for the Mancunian club, but whether Napoli will entertain such a proposal remains to be seen.
Ruben Amorim’s arrival at Old Trafford was met with optimism, but the Portuguese manager faces an uphill battle to restore the club to its former glory. His 3-4-2-1 system demands specific profiles in key positions, and Osimhen’s physicality, pace, and clinical finishing make him an ideal candidate to lead the line.
However, the success of this potential transfer hinges on Napoli’s willingness to negotiate. If the deal falls through, United may be forced to explore alternative targets, further complicating their summer plans.
The prospect of Victor Osimhen donning the famous red jersey is an exciting one for Manchester United fans, but the road to securing his signature is fraught with challenges. The proposed part-exchange deal involving Rasmus Hojlund is a bold and creative attempt to navigate the club’s financial constraints, but its success is far from guaranteed.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see whether Ruben Amorim and the United hierarchy can pull off what would undoubtedly be one of the signings of the season. For now, the Red Devils’ faithful can only hope that their club’s pursuit of Osimhen bears fruit, as they look to usher in a new era of success under their ambitious young manager.
