Manchester United are being dealt with too many setbacks back-to-back, as the latest was their top target Cody Gakpo joining their bitter rivals Liverpool. After Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure, United accelerated their efforts to acquire the signature of the coveted youngster, who was awaiting on a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs after scintillating displays for both club and country.
However, the Red Devils were once again left stranded despite reports claiming that they were in advanced negotiations with the Netherlands’ international, who too was willing to join Erik ten Hag’s project at Old Trafford. But while United engaged in a dispute with PSV over the fee, Liverpool sneaked past a £50 million package for the 23-year-old and struck a deal to sign him. Ten Hag now wants to quickly shift focus to alternatives, and United have hence identified Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.
United to rekindle Osimhen interest after losing Cody Gakpo
Victor Osimhen was once a player on many of top clubs’ shop-list, but a move for the Nigerian international never went through. The reason being Napoli wanting to recoup their €75 million investment in him. the staggering amount raised eyebrows of many as Osimhen was a name unknown at the time Napoli splashed €75 million on his acquisition from Lille in 2020.
However, the striker has justified the price tag over the course of his two-and-a-half-years in Naples, having netted a brilliant 38 goals and provided 12 assists in 76 games for the club. Manchester United, Arsenal, Juventus and Barcelona were all credited with substantial interest in signing 23-year-old over the last three transfer windows. But Napoli held out on their €80 million valuation which forced the potential suitors to back-off.
According to Manchester Evening News, United now want to revisit Italy to swoop in Osimhen, after Cody Gakpo slipped out of their hands. The Red Devils are ready to splash the cash this time, as they are in a dire need of a striker. Osimhen has continued his exploits in Serie A this season, having scored 9 goals in 11 games, which evidently have diminished the ‘one season wonder’ claims about him.
Erik ten Hag wants the Red Devils to quickly move on to Osimhen in a bid to avoid the Gakpo situation. However, they may have competitors once again, with rivals Arsenal too ready to reignite their interest in the striker. The Gunners have lost their summer recruit Gabriel Jesus to a knee injury who is slated to be on the sidelines for the next three months.
Arsenal are sitting atop of the Premier League and want to keep it that way and hence are already on the lookout of a striker to lead their line. The Londoners’ interest in Osimhen could threaten United’s attempts to sign him as Gakpo alternative, with the league leaders’ project being more enticing as well. Money could only play an important role here as United will need to sign a big cheque if they are to bring in Osimhen next month.