Victor Osimhen Transfer Pursuit Ends
Victor Osimhen's long-awaited move to Manchester United has come to an end. The Nigerian international's high transfer fee and substantial wages have priced him out of a move to the Premier League giants.
Manchester United have reportedly ended their pursuit of Victor Osimhen due to the combined cost of his transfer fee and salary. The Red Devils' recruitment team have opted to pursue other targets this summer.
The 27-year-old has continued to dominate the Turkish Super Lig, but the cost of signing him has effectively priced him out of a move to the Premier League giants. Victor Osimhen is valued at around €150m, while his annual salary is estimated at approximately €14m.
The financial reality of paying a significant transfer fee, alongside meeting Osimhen's salary demands, makes the deal unworkable. According to Manchester Evening News writer Tyrone Marshall, the “ship has sailed” on a potential move to United.
Victor Osimhen remains one of Europe’s most feared strikers, but despite his prolific form in Turkey, the prospect of him leading the line at Old Trafford has come to an end. Former players Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra had publicly urged the club to make a move for the Nigerian.
United have now turned their attention to alternative striking options. A five-man shortlist has been drawn up, ranging from Premier League-proven options like Jean-Philippe Mateta, who can provide experience and mentorship.
The goal is to avoid panic buys and ensure the squad has the depth to compete in the Champions League. Victor Osimhen, on the other hand, appears set to begin his third season with Galatasaray after impressing during his initial loan spell and continuing his fine form following his permanent move from Napoli.
Barcelona have reportedly identified Benjamin Sesko as a potential long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski. Although Julian Alvarez remains the top priority for Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco, the difficulty of negotiating with Atletico Madrid has prompted the Catalan club to consider alternative targets, including the Slovenian international.
United, however, are not paying much attention to the speculation from Spain. The club reportedly view Sesko as their long-term No. 9 and have received no formal approach from Barcelona. Marshall added, “United haven’t had any offer or expression of interest from Barcelona for Sesko and aren’t treating those links with much seriousness at the moment.