Napoli are reportedly eager to resolve Victor Osimhen’s future this summer, with the Italian club open to player exchange deals. Manchester United could be pivotal in this scenario, given Napoli’s long-standing interest in two of their forwards, Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund.
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Osimhen, currently 26 years old, is on loan at Galatasaray after failing to secure a permanent move during the last transfer window. This was possible because Turkey’s market remained open longer than most European leagues. His performances in Turkey have been nothing short of stellar, with 17 goals in 23 appearances, propelling Galatasaray to the top of the Süper Lig and into the Europa League playoffs. Intriguingly, a potential clash between Galatasaray and Manchester United in the next round of the Europa League could add another layer of drama to this unfolding transfer saga.
A Summer of Decisions Looms
Osimhen’s contract with Napoli, signed in December 2023, runs until June 2026 and previously included a £100 million release clause. Despite widespread interest from top European clubs and even Saudi Pro League teams last summer, no agreement was reached that satisfied all parties. However, reports suggest that this release clause will drop significantly to around £65 million at the end of the current campaign. This reduction is expected to reignite interest from Europe’s elite clubs, with Manchester United likely leading the charge due to their ongoing need for a reliable striker.
The Nigerian international has options beyond England as well. Remaining at Galatasaray on a permanent basis is reportedly still a possibility, although Napoli rejected a €65 million bid from the Turkish giants earlier this year. Juventus has also emerged as a potential suitor, though negotiating with a Serie A rival would likely be complicated.
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Manchester United’s Unique Position
Manchester United may hold an advantage in the race for Osimhen due to Napoli’s openness to player exchange deals. According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Napoli “appreciate several players at Old Trafford,” particularly Garnacho and Højlund. Garnacho has been on Napoli’s radar for some time; they reportedly tried to sign him during the January transfer window as a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who departed for Paris Saint-Germain. Meanwhile, Højlund’s physicality and potential make him another attractive option for Napoli.
If United were willing to part with either player as part of a deal for Osimhen, it could significantly lower the financial outlay required. Garnacho’s potential inclusion might be especially tempting for Napoli, given their previous interest and his ability to fill key roles on the wing.
The Competition
United will face stiff competition from other Premier League clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United. Each of these teams is monitoring Osimhen’s situation closely. However, Manchester United’s pressing need for a proven goal-scorer could make them more aggressive in pursuing a deal.
Ruben Amorim’s tactical approach at Old Trafford also makes Osimhen an ideal fit. Amorim’s 3-4-3 system relies heavily on a strong central striker capable of leading the line effectively a role Osimhen has excelled in throughout his career. His combination of physical prowess and clinical finishing would address one of United’s most glaring weaknesses this season.
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Potential Outcomes
Napoli’s willingness to negotiate exchange deals creates intriguing possibilities for Manchester United. A swap involving Højlund or Garnacho could be mutually beneficial: Napoli would gain young talents with high ceilings while United would secure one of Europe’s most prolific strikers at a reduced cost.
However, any decision involving Garnacho might be met with hesitation given his immense potential and growing importance at Old Trafford. Similarly, Højlund has shown flashes of brilliance during his debut season in England and could be seen as a long-term solution up front.
Ultimately, much will depend on how negotiations unfold over the coming months. With Osimhen’s release clause set to drop significantly and Napoli open to creative solutions, Manchester United may find themselves in pole position provided they are willing to make bold decisions regarding their existing squad.
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