Manchester United target Victor Osimhen in player-plus-cash deal involving Joshua Zirkzee
Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is set for a high-profile move this summer, with Manchester United emerging as a leading contender for his signature.
The Premier League club is reportedly exploring a player-plus-cash deal involving Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee in an effort to tempt Napoli into selling their star striker.
Despite being under contract with Napoli until 2026, Osimhen is widely expected to leave the club this summer. The Nigerian international has previously turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi side Al-Hilal, signalling a clear preference to stay in Europe—particularly the Premier League.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Manchester United have reignited their long-standing interest in the 25-year-old, who scored an impressive 37 goals in 41 appearances last season.
United are reportedly reluctant to meet Osimhen’s €75 million (£63m/$85m) release clause and instead hope that offering Zirkzee as part of the package will help reduce the overall fee.
Zirkzee, who made a name for himself at Bologna, is not expected to feature in new United manager Ruben Amorim’s plans following the recent arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolves. While Inter Milan have shown interest in a loan move for the Dutchman, United believe he could be a valuable makeweight in negotiations with Napoli.
Osimhen is seen as a key piece in Manchester United’s rebuild after a disappointing season that ended with a mid-table Premier League finish and a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham.
His decision to reject Al-Hilal also means he won’t be part of the upcoming Club World Cup, reinforcing the likelihood that his next appearance will be with a new club at the start of the 2025/26 season.
Although Turkish champions Galatasaray have also expressed interest, Osimhen’s desire to play in England puts Manchester United in a strong position to secure the deal.
