Red Devils Look to Strengthen Attack with Nigerian Forward Amid Striker Struggles

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, with the possibility of including underperforming forward Joshua Zirkzee in the deal. The Nigerian international, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray, has been in impressive form this season, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in just nine appearances. Despite his strong showing, Osimhen is expected to return to Napoli next summer, with rumors of an early termination of his loan deal being firmly dismissed.

Osimhen’s Form and Future at Napoli

Osimhen, 25, has endured a turbulent period at Napoli since failing to secure a permanent move away from the club during the summer transfer window. Although there was significant interest from top European clubs including Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and various teams in Saudi Arabia, the Nigerian striker rejected offers from the Saudi Pro League in favor of staying in Europe.

While he has impressed on loan at Galatasaray, Napoli remain the owner of his rights, and reports indicate that Osimhen will likely return to the Serie A club at the end of the season. However, despite this, the forward’s performances have caught the attention of multiple top clubs, with Manchester United now reportedly leading the race for his signature.

United’s Interest in Osimhen and Striker Search

Manchester United are actively looking to strengthen their attacking options, and Osimhen has emerged as a prime target. The club’s current strike force, consisting of Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, has struggled to make an impact this season. United have managed just three goals between the two forwards in the Premier League, with Zirkzee failing to score since the opening match of the 2024-25 campaign. Højlund has scored just once.

As a result, United are keen to find a more reliable option to lead the line. Osimhen’s record at Napoli—76 goals and 18 assists in 133 appearances makes him an attractive prospect for the Red Devils. His pace, clinical finishing, and physicality would offer a significant upgrade to the team’s attacking options, making him a key target for new manager Ruben Amorim.

Zirkzee Could Be Included in Deal to Secure Osimhen

In a bid to land the highly sought-after striker, Manchester United are reportedly considering offering Zirkzee as part of the deal. The Dutch forward, who joined United from Bayern Munich in the summer, has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford. His lack of goals and limited playing time this season have led to suggestions that he could be used as a makeweight in a potential move for Osimhen.

Journalist Gerardo Fasano noted that Zirkzee’s inclusion in the deal could help facilitate the transfer, as Napoli may be open to adding the 22-year-old to their squad in exchange for Osimhen. Furthermore, Juventus are reportedly monitoring Zirkzee’s situation, adding another layer of complexity to the transfer saga.

The Striker’s Market and Potential Competition

While Manchester United are front-runners in the race for Osimhen, they are not the only club interested in his services. Chelsea and Arsenal have both previously been linked with the Nigerian forward, and it is expected that they will continue to monitor his situation throughout the season. With Osimhen’s future still up in the air, the competition for his signature will likely intensify as the transfer window approaches.

For now, the focus remains on the player’s current loan spell at Galatasaray, but with Manchester United seeking reinforcements and Napoli’s intentions unclear, the prospect of a transfer could materialize sooner rather than later.

A Major Upgrade for Manchester United

Should Manchester United successfully acquire Osimhen, it would represent a huge upgrade to their attacking options. The Nigerian’s proven goal-scoring ability in one of Europe’s top leagues, combined with his international pedigree, makes him a top-tier talent that would bolster United’s bid for a higher finish in the Premier League and a more competitive European campaign.