Manchester United have identified Napoli striker Victor Osimhen as the ideal long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.
According to a report from TuttoNapoli, Manchester United have expressed the desire to sign Victor Osimhen in the summer. The Napoli forward is regarded as one of best strikers in Italy, amid his successful spell with Naples. However, his stint in Serie A may come soon to an end, with Manchester United closely monitoring his situation.
Valued at a whopping €100 million, Osimhen has even been identified as a potential long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who has received fierce criticism for his performances at Old Trafford in recent weeks, with many now questioning his influence in the team camp.
It has led to speculations over Ronaldo’s premature exit from Manchester United in the summer, with reports even suggesting that the Red Devils may sanction the Portuguese international’s exit if they miss out on the Champions League. But while that would depend on their performances during the remainder of the campaign, the club are already moving through with the plans to reinforce the attacking unit.
Edinson Cavani, after all, is set to leave Manchester United after the end of the season amid interest from Boca Juniors and River Plate, whereas Mason Greenwood’s off-field issues have left a massive void in the club’s attacking unit.
Osimhen has been identified as an ideal man to fill the void, especially in case Ronaldo departs Old Trafford as well. With a tally of 21 goals in 52 competitive matches for Napoli, the Nigerian international is regarded as one of the best attackers in Serie A and has played a vital role in the Partenopei‘s unlikely bid for the Scudetto this term.
The 23-year-old’s knack for scoring goals, coupled with his speed and versatility in the final third, have made him an ideal option for Manchester United, as the club look to build a more potent offensive unit in the future, led by the likes of Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and potentially, Osimhen.
However, Napoli’s hefty price-tag for the former Wolfsburg starlet is likely to cause problems for Manchester United, who have prioritised signing a new midfielder in the summer and may also have to shore up their defensive unit. Paying a fortune for Osimhen, in that regard, is an unlikely proposition, not just for the Red Devils but for most clubs across Europe.
