Victor Osimhen , the Nigerian striker who has taken Serie A by storm with his performances for Napoli, has become one of the most sought-after players in European football. His blistering pace, aerial ability, and clinical finishing have made him a key figure in Luciano Spalletti’s side, helping Napoli to their first Serie A title in over three decades in 2023. With multiple clubs across Europe eyeing his signature, the Premier League appears to be the most likely destination for the 25-year-old forward, especially with two top-flight English clubs reportedly ready to meet Napoli’s €75 million asking price.
Osimhen’s Rise to Stardom at Napoli
Osimhen joined Napoli in 2020 for a club-record fee, and since then, he has rapidly become one of the top strikers in Europe. His impact was immediate, with the Nigerian international scoring consistently and adapting quickly to Serie A’s tactical demands. His 2022-23 season was particularly remarkable, as he scored 26 goals in 32 league appearances, helping Napoli clinch the Serie A title for the first time since 1990. His performances earned him numerous accolades and a reputation as one of the best young forwards in the world.
Osimhen’s success at Napoli has been built on his versatility and physical attributes. Standing at 6’1”, he combines strength and speed to beat defenders in one-on-one situations, while his ability to finish with both feet and his head makes him a constant threat in front of goal. His movement off the ball, combined with his strong hold-up play, has also made him a key focal point for Napoli’s attacking setup.
The €75 Million Price Tag: A Sign of Napoli’s Intentions
Despite his stellar performances, Osimhen’s future at Napoli is currently uncertain. With just two years remaining on his contract, Napoli has been keen to extend the forward’s deal, but as of now, an agreement has yet to be reached. The club, aware of the growing interest from top European clubs, has reportedly set a €75 million price tag on Osimhen, a figure that would make him one of the most expensive players to move to the Premier League in recent years.
Napoli’s decision to place such a hefty price on Osimhen’s head reflects their desire to keep their star man for the long term, but also a willingness to entertain offers should the right one come in. In today’s inflated transfer market, €75 million for a player of Osimhen’s caliber is seen as reasonable, considering his potential, age, and performances over the last few seasons. With the club not desperate to sell but also acknowledging the possibility of a big-money move, Napoli finds itself in a strong negotiating position.
Premier League Interest: Two Clubs in the Race
The Premier League has been identified as the most likely destination for Osimhen if he were to leave Naples. With its financial muscle, reputation for attracting top talent, and intense competition, England’s top flight has become a magnet for players like Osimhen, who are looking to take their careers to the next level. Reports have suggested that two Premier League clubs, in particular, are ready to meet Napoli’s €75 million asking price for the striker.
1.Manchester United
Manchester United has long been linked with Osimhen, and the Red Devils are among the most prominent clubs rumored to be interested in securing his services. United’s pursuit of a top striker has been a key focus in recent transfer windows, with the club struggling to find a consistent forward to lead the line since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo. In the 2023-24 season, United’s struggles in attack have been evident, with Anthony Martial and Rasmus Højlund not yet delivering the kind of performances expected at Old Trafford.
Osimhen could be the perfect solution to Manchester United’s striker conundrum. His pace and ability to play in a variety of attacking roles would complement the creativity of Bruno Fernandes and the flair of players like Marcus Rashford. Moreover, with the team involved in multiple competitions, Osimhen’s physicality and work rate would suit Erik ten Hag’s style of play, which demands high pressing and fast transitions.
Manchester United’s financial backing, especially after securing Champions League football for the 2024-25 season, would enable them to meet Napoli’s asking price. United’s recent forays into the transfer market have shown their willingness to spend big when necessary, and Osimhen could be seen as the marquee signing needed to bring them back into the upper echelons of European football.
2.Chelsea
Chelsea is another club reportedly ready to make a move for Osimhen. Despite spending heavily in recent transfer windows, the Blues have continued to struggle for consistency in attack. While new signings like Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson have shown flashes of potential, Chelsea still lacks a proven goalscorer who can consistently deliver in the Premier League. Osimhen fits this profile perfectly, with his ability to score in a variety of ways and his work ethic.
Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen is likely to be fueled by the desire to complement their young attacking core, which includes talents like Raheem Sterling, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Cole Palmer. Having been one of the most prolific strikers in Italy, Osimhen’s addition would provide Chelsea with a focal point in their attack, helping to ease the pressure on their more creative players and ensure a better return of goals.
Moreover, Chelsea’s owner, Todd Boehly, has shown a willingness to spend big on talent, and with a wealth of attacking options already at the club, Osimhen could be viewed as a final piece in a jigsaw puzzle that has often been incomplete. Chelsea’s readiness to offer the €75 million required to secure Osimhen’s signature would likely be bolstered by the club’s ongoing efforts to rebuild and return to the top of the Premier League.
The Financial Landscape: How Will the Transfer Be Funded?
While both Manchester United and Chelsea have the financial resources to meet Napoli’s €75 million asking price, it remains to be seen how each club will fund the deal. For Manchester United, securing a Champions League spot for the 2024-25 season will provide a significant financial boost, which could allow the club to make a major investment in their squad. Additionally, player sales or loan moves could help raise the necessary funds.
Chelsea, on the other hand, has already spent heavily under Boehly’s ownership but has also been more open to selling or loaning out players who are surplus to requirements. The club’s squad is large, and there are several high-profile players who could be moved on to help balance the books, including Romelu Lukaku, who has been out on loan at Roma, and players like Hakim Ziyech, who have struggled to establish themselves as key players at Stamford Bridge.
Decision: The Key to the Move
While the two Premier League clubs seem poised to meet Napoli’s asking price, much will depend on Osimhen’s own preferences. The striker has previously indicated that he is focused on continuing his development at Napoli, but at 25, he is undoubtedly weighing his options as he looks to make the next step in his career. The opportunity to play in the Premier League with either Manchester United or Chelsea would be a significant draw for the Nigerian international, especially considering the financial incentives and the chance to compete at the highest level.
Moreover, Osimhen’s move would also depend on his personal relationship with Napoli and whether he feels that he has achieved everything he can in Italy. If he does decide to leave, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.
Conclusion
Victor Osimhen’s potential move to the Premier League has captured the imagination of football fans around the world. With two of the league’s biggest clubs reportedly ready to meet Napoli’s €75 million asking price, the next few months could see one of the most exciting transfers of the summer unfold. Whether it’s Manchester United, Chelsea, or another suitor, Osimhen’s future is likely to be one of the key talking points of the transfer window. As always, football fans will be watching closely to see where one of Europe’s top strikers will ply his trade next.
