Glenn Fernandes
Transfer News: Newcastle United lead the race for Manchester United target and SSC Napoli forward Victor Osimhen
According to Il Mattino and CalcioNapoli (h/t Chronicle Live), Newcastle United are thought to be at the front of the pack to sign Manchester United transfer target Victor Osimhen
The 23-year-old has been grabbing a lot of eyeballs with his performances in recent times. The young forward has been linked with a move to the Premier League and the Magpies could be in a great position to land him.
The Nigerian professional footballer has bagged 11 goals and provided four assists in 22 matches across all competitions this campaign despite being on the sidelines for a considerable amount of time due to a fractured cheekbone.
The Tyneside club flexed its financial might in the last transfer window by securing the services of pivotal players like Dan Burn. Keiran Trippier, Bruno Guimarães and Chris Wood in January. The Toons have put up some great results in their recent fixtures and could be looking to take their game to the next level by adding the likes of Osimhen to their squad in the summer.
The Old Trafford outfit has tried to adopt a more attacking and intense style of play under interim manager Ralf Rangnick but their striking duo of Edinson Cavani and Cristiano Ronaldo has at times struggled to match the pace and demands of their German manager.
The Uruguayan and Portuguese internationals are in their 30s and could be considered to be in the twilight phase of their respective footballing careers. According to the Express at the start of January, one could also view a sense of uncertainty looming around their long-term futures at the Manchester Based club.
Whilst the Mancunian club does have the option of Anthony Martial who is currently on loan to Sevilla, a lack of consistency and underwhelming performances in recent times could prompt Man Utd to take a dip in the transfer market in the summer.
Rangnick’s men have managed to dominate position and create a decent amount of chances in their recent fixtures but still seem to lack that clinical touch in front of goal. This has been an issue ever since the 63-year-old manager took charge and a young, exciting striker could be a step in the right direction to help the club.
At 23, Osimhen could still have some of his peak footballing years ahead of him. The former LOSC Lille striker could be a great long-term asset to the club if he is developed and nurtured in the right manner.
That being said, the Red Devils would have to part with a great deal of money if they are to secure his services right now. According to Rai Sports journalist Ciro Venerato (h/t Daily Mail), it is believed that the Italian club would demand at least £84m for the young striker.
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Whilst it seems like a potentially great acquisition, the alleged price tag and the interest of Newcastle could be a major hurdle for the Red Devils. Only time can tell whether or not Osimhen stays with the Partenopei but the Tyneside club seem to be on the front foot to lure the 23-year-old right now.
