Napoli’s star striker, Victor Osimhen, is a prime target for a high-profile summer transfer, with Manchester United reportedly leading the chase.
The Red Devils are exploring a player-plus-cash deal, potentially including Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee, to secure the Nigerian international.
Despite a contract running until 2026, Osimhen is widely anticipated to leave Naples this summer.
The Nigerian international has made no secret of his ambition to play in the Premier League, rebuffing a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal in favour of staying in Europe.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Manchester United have reignited their interest in the 25-year-old striker, who notched an impressive 37 goals in 41 appearances last season.
United, however, are hesitant to meet Osimhen’s €75 million (£63m/$85m) release clause and are instead exploring a deal that would send out-of-favour striker Joshua Zirkzee to Napoli as part of the package.
Zirkzee, who previously impressed with Bologna in Serie A, is not expected to be in new manager Ruben Amorim’s plans following the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves.
While Inter Milan have reportedly shown interest in a loan move for the Dutchman, Manchester United hope that including him in the Osimhen deal will persuade Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis to reduce his asking price.
The Red Devils view Osimhen as the ideal forward to spearhead a new era at Old Trafford after a disappointing campaign that saw them narrowly avoid a bottom-half Premier League finish and lose to Tottenham in the Europa League final.
Osimhen’s refusal to join Al-Hilal also means he will not be part of the upcoming Club World Cup, indicating that his next appearance will likely be with a new club at the start of the 2025/26 season.
Turkish champions Galatasaray have also expressed interest, but the striker’s desire to play in England could make United his most appealing destination.
