Manchester United are on the hunt for a new striker and are expected to spend big on a marquee signing this summer. While Victor Osimhen is one name on their list of targets, the Nigerian superstar might not be attainable for the Premier League giants.
The 24-year-old is currently enjoying a stellar season with Napoli, scoring a whopping 16 goals in 17 Serie A appearances this term. As a result, Gli Azzurri are trailblazing their way to its first Scudetto title since 1990, with Spalletti's side sitting 13 points ahead at the top of the table.
On the back of this exceptional goalscoring form, a report from Naples-based newspaper Il Mattino emerged claiming that the Red Devils are plotting a summer raid for the Super Eagles sensation. While there have been conflicting reports regarding the exact amount needed, ranging from $129M to $160M, the presumption is that Osimhen will cost a tremendous amount of money.
But is the striker even up for sale? Napoli president Aurelio de Laurentiis has handed a huge blow to all the interested parties, including Chelsea, stating that this season's Serie A top scorer isn't on the market.
De Laurentiis, known as one of the toughest executives to deal with in European football, made this admission to Bild (as per Fabrizio Romano) amid all the speculations surrounding his star striker.
The 72-year-old stated that he has no desire to sell the Nigerian and with Napoli being in a lovely financial situation, the club have no need to cash in on the goalscorer either.
"I can tell you that Osimhen is not for sale," De Laurentiis said.
"Our players are in demand, but I don't have to sell anyone.
"We don't have any debts."
Osimhen's contract ends in 2025 and talks over a new contract have not yet taken place. As a result, this summer could be the best time to cash in on the striker.
There is also the possibility of this being a ploy to increase his price. Publicly admitting that your player is for sale would weaken one's negotiating power. However, if that is the case, then clubs interested in the former Lille attacker might have to fork out a ridiculous sum of money for his signature.
Manchester United have recently been linked with a takeover by wealthy Qataris, with those Middle Easterns being ready to invest heavily in Ten Hag's squad. If that comes to fruition, Old Trafford might end up being the perfect place for Osimhen.
