Manchester United are anticipated to sign a new striker during this summer’s transfer window.
The Red Devils were determined to land Liam Delap from Ipswich Town last month, but the 22-year-old has opted to join Chelsea instead.
United are yet to find a suitable alternative, but The Athletic claim that Napoli star Victor Osimhen could reemerge as a striker target for them.
It is claimed that the striker’s expected wages ‘had been seen as prohibitive’, but there could be a ‘reevaluation’ now that the move for Delap is off.
Osimhen would be a dream signing for United
The Nigerian star fell out with Napoli last summer, and he was loaned out to Galatasaray where he scored 37 goals from just 41 appearances in all competitions.
He is now expected to pursue a permanent move away from the Naples outfit. The Serie A giants are likely to hold out for his release clause worth £63 million.
In our view, United have the financial capacity to pay the clause figure over multiple seasons, but the big question is whether the striker will lower his wage demands.
Osimhen is presently eyeing a net weekly salary of £194,000 per week at his next club, which equates to gross wages of £350,000 weekly before taxes are deducted.
The Red Devils are unlikely to make such a huge outlay. If he is prepared to accept a gross package of around £250,000 per week, a deal could be on the cards.
It remains to be seen whether United can change his contract stance amid interest from Al Hilal, who are ready to hand him a stunning £645,000 per week after tax.
Osimhen, described as ‘world-class‘ by manager Jose Mourinho, would be a significant upgrade on Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee for the Red Devils.
He would be a superb acquisition for United and could form a dream attack alongside Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, with Bruno Fernandes operating in central midfield.
United have already confirmed the signing of Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers. Mbeumo has also made the decision to join the club, but a fee has to be agreed with Brentford.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com