In a move that could reshape the future of both clubs, Napoli have reportedly informed Manchester United of the three players they would be interested in as part of a potential swap deal for their star striker, Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian forward, who has been one of the hottest properties in European football, is attracting interest from several top clubs following a sensational season in Serie A. However, it is Manchester United who are now seemingly at the forefront of negotiations with Napoli, who are keen to explore the possibility of a player exchange as part of any potential move.
Osimhen has been the spearhead of Napoli’s attack for the past few seasons and was instrumental in their historic 2022-2023 Serie A title win. His blistering pace, clinical finishing, and ability to hold up play have made him one of the most coveted strikers in the game. His performances have not only earned him plaudits in Italy but have also caught the eye of clubs across Europe, with Manchester United emerging as one of the front-runners in the race for his signature.
The Nigerian international has continued to impress this season, further solidifying his place among the elite forwards in world football. His combination of physicality, speed, and technical ability makes him a nightmare for defenders, and it’s no surprise that United, who have been struggling with consistent goal-scoring since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, have turned their attention to the Napoli star. However, with Napoli’s high valuation of Osimhen, Manchester United are exploring the possibility of a swap deal to reduce the financial outlay needed to secure his services.
The Three Players Napoli Are Interested In
According to multiple reports from Italy, Napoli have outlined three players at Manchester United who they are reportedly interested in as part of a potential swap deal. These players are Anthony Martial, Jadon Sancho, and Scott McTominay—three individuals who have faced their own struggles at Old Trafford in recent seasons.
1. Anthony Martial: The Frustrating Forward
Anthony Martial’s time at Manchester United has been one marked by flashes of brilliance but also frequent periods of injury and inconsistency. Since arriving at United in 2015, Martial has shown glimpses of his immense talent, particularly during his early seasons at the club. However, his development has been stunted by injuries and a lack of consistent form, which has ultimately led to him being relegated to the periphery under Erik ten Hag.
Despite this, Martial’s skill set remains highly regarded. His pace, technical ability, and dribbling skills make him a versatile forward capable of playing both as a center-forward and a winger. Napoli are said to be intrigued by his potential and see him as a player who could thrive in their system. If Martial can stay fit and find his rhythm in Italy, Napoli believe he could rediscover the form that once made him one of Europe’s most promising forwards.
2. Jadon Sancho: The Enigma
Jadon Sancho’s move to Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund in 2021 was hailed as one of the club’s most exciting signings in recent years. However, his time in England has been far from smooth, as he has struggled to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity and demands. The winger, who was once considered one of the most exciting young talents in Europe, has often found himself out of favor under Erik ten Hag, with the Dutchman publicly expressing frustration with Sancho’s lack of consistency and application.
Sancho’s skill set remains undoubted. His ability to beat defenders, create chances, and provide incisive passes makes him a potent threat in any attacking setup. Napoli, who are known for their fluid attacking play and emphasis on wide creativity, could offer Sancho a fresh start in Serie A. A change of environment could be just what he needs to rediscover his best form, and Napoli’s interest in him suggests they believe he still has the potential to become a star in Italy.
3. Scott McTominay: The Midfield Workhorse
Scott McTominay is another player who has seen his role at Manchester United fluctuate under Erik ten Hag. The Scottish midfielder has been a solid presence in United’s midfield over the years, known for his work ethic, defensive contributions, and ability to break up opposition attacks. However, he has often been overshadowed by other more high-profile signings, with many questioning his technical ability and suitability for United’s midfield.
While McTominay may not be a player who grabs headlines, his no-nonsense approach to the game has earned him respect in England. Napoli, who have a strong tradition of developing dynamic, box-to-box midfielders, see McTominay as someone who could add steel and versatility to their engine room. His ability to break up play and provide protection to the defense could be a valuable asset in Serie A, where tactical discipline is crucial.
Why a Swap Deal Makes Sense for Both Parties
A swap deal involving these three players would allow both clubs to address pressing needs while also managing their financial situations. For Manchester United, bringing in Osimhen would solve their long-standing striker problem, as the club has been desperately searching for a top-class forward since the departure of Zlatan Ibrahimović in 2018. Osimhen’s ability to lead the line and score goals could significantly improve United’s attacking output, something they have struggled with in recent seasons.
On the other hand, Napoli could benefit from acquiring players who could strengthen their squad in areas where they may need reinforcements. With Martial, Sancho, and McTominay all capable of making an impact at the top level, Napoli would gain depth and quality in key positions. Moreover, a swap deal would reduce the financial burden of acquiring Osimhen, as United would be able to offer players with established value rather than paying a huge transfer fee.
The swap would also provide a fresh start for the involved players. Martial, Sancho, and McTominay have all faced challenges at Old Trafford in recent seasons, with none of them fully cementing their place as first-choice starters. A move to Napoli could offer them a new environment in which they could potentially flourish. For Napoli, acquiring these players would give them options in attack, creativity, and midfield, which could help them maintain their competitiveness both domestically and in European competitions.
Conclusion: Will the Deal Happen?
While the prospect of a swap deal for Victor Osimhen involving Anthony Martial, Jadon Sancho, and Scott McTominay is certainly intriguing, there are still many hurdles to overcome. Negotiations between clubs can be unpredictable, and it remains to be seen whether Manchester United will be willing to part with these players in exchange for Osimhen.
However, one thing is clear: both clubs are facing important decisions regarding their squads. For Napoli, keeping Osimhen may not be feasible in the long term if a top offer arrives, and exploring alternatives through a swap could be a smart move. For Manchester United, securing a top striker like Osimhen would be a major boost to their ambitions, but it would require careful maneuvering to balance their squad and finances.
As the transfer window looms, this potential swap deal could be one of the most fascinating and impactful moves of the summer.
