Can Manchester United steal Victor Osimhen from Chelsea’s grasps?

Manchester United have set their sights on Victor Osimhen. But, they will have to defeat Chelsea to secure the services of the Nigerian.

Manchester United’s recent lackluster performances have left them in dire need of a top-class striker who can convert their chances into goals. The Old Trafford outfit has turned their attention towards the Scudetto winner, Victor Osimhen. However, the path to secure his services remains challenged as Chelsea sneak ahead in the race with a “potential advantage”.

Recent reports suggest that the Serie A champions want Christian Pulisic. Napoli are reportedly keen on signing the American winger, who has struggled for consistency in the Premier League. The Blues are looking to sign Osimhen and Napoli’s interest in Pulisic provides them an opportunity to not only sign the Nigerian but also to offload the American.

"Christian Pulisic is drawing greater attention from Napoli and Juventus.(Via: Daily Mail)"

Victor Osimhen’s sublime 2022/23 season

Despite Napoli’s insistence that Victor Osimhen is not for sale, the Nigerian center forward could still command a staggering transfer fee of £130 million, given his impressive form and the length of his contract. In the 2022/23 Serie A season, Osimhen has already scored 23 goals and provided four assists, cementing his status as one of the league’s most lethal strikers.

Moreover, the 22-year-old’s outstanding performances in the UEFA Champions League cannot be overlooked, as he played a pivotal role in guiding his side to the semifinals alongside Kvaratskhelia. He has five goals in six appearances for his side.

Manchester United’s up top woes continues

Manchester United have undoubtedly had a more successful season compared to their struggles in the 2021/22 campaign. However, their recent form has been far from convincing, particularly in front of goal. In the last 180 minutes of Premier League action, Erik ten Hag’s men have failed to score a single goal, with just one goal in their last three league games.

While Marcus Rashford has been a bright spot in the team, the rest of the squad has failed to live up to expectations. Injuries have hampered Anthony Martial’s progress, and Wout Weghorst has struggled to find his form since arriving on loan, with a meager four goals scored between them, none of which were by Weghorst in the English top flight.

Manchester United’s inability to convert their chances is evident, with only 49 out of 688 shots finding the back of the net in the Premier League. This places them in a lowly 15th position and is a cause for concern, particularly for a team aspiring for a top-four finish. It is clear that a prolific striker is needed to execute Ten Hag’s style effectively.

(Stats via transfermarkt)

Victor Osimhen transfer: What to expect?

After a highly successful goal-scoring campaign, it seems highly improbable for Napoli to retain the services of their Nigerian striker. If not the English clubs, Bayern Munich or Real Madrid could potentially enter the fray to secure the signature of Victor Osimhen. As such, it is likely that a bidding war will ensue between the clubs, and the transfer saga could drag on throughout the summer months.

Manchester United find themselves on the brink of securing European football next season, with Champions League qualification within their grasp. However, should they fail to qualify for the competition, it may prove challenging to convince Osimhen to join the club. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s chances of securing even a Conference League spot seem slim, and they will have to offer a highly lucrative contract to entice the striker to Stamford Bridge.