A potential transfer of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen to Manchester United is stirring controversy, with Napoli reportedly willing to offer a significant discount on the player’s €75m release clause to avoid strengthening Serie A rivals Juventus. The Italian club’s director, Giovanni Manna, is in London negotiating with United officials, offering a cut-price deal that could see Osimhen land at Old Trafford despite interest from multiple top-tier clubs.
However, the deal is not without complications. Napoli’s willingness to reduce the price tag has raised eyebrows, particularly as it risks upsetting Juventus, one of Osimhen’s major suitors. Sources indicate that the frosty relationship between Juventus sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli and Napoli’s board could derail any potential move to the Old Lady. Still, Osimhen’s reported openness to a move to United has added fuel to the fire, as the Red Devils remain desperate to bolster their attack after a lackluster season.
The controversy deepens with reports suggesting that Osimhen’s stellar form at Galatasaray—28 goals in 32 appearances—has made him one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe. Yet, despite Juventus’ interest, United seem poised to beat them to the punch. Some are questioning why Napoli would potentially jeopardize a deal with one of their own Serie A rivals, especially when clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring the situation.
As Napoli and Manchester United discuss the sale, questions are being raised about the integrity of the negotiations and the club’s motives in offering the discount. With Chelsea seemingly focusing elsewhere, and United’s potential lack of European football next season, many are wondering if the deal is more about avoiding Juventus’ strengthening than actually benefiting Osimhen’s career.
This move, which could see Osimhen leave Napoli after unsuccessful attempts to move to Saudi Arabia and Chelsea last year, is rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about transfer sagas of the summer. The future of the Nigerian striker, who is focused on helping Galatasaray win domestic trophies, remains uncertain, but it’s clear that Napoli’s internal politics and rivalries are set to play a key role in where he ends up next.
