Victor Osimhen is a man in demand with Newcastle ready to push the boat out to get a deal done, but Manchester United are reported to be in the box seat.
Newcastle were linked with a swoop for the Napoli striker in the January transfer window. A deal failed to materialise but their interest has not gone away. The problem for the Magpies is the fact a host of other clubs have joined the race.
Manchester United being one of them. La Repubblica are reporting that the race is hotting up for the Nigerian ace. They say that Newcastle are ready to ‘go crazy’ but they put Manchester United ‘on pole’ to get it done.
Newcastle now have the funds to compete for such a player. There is talk that Osimhen will cost at least £84million but that will not deter Newcastle.
The striker has been in red-hot form for the Serie A side this season. He has scored 17 goals in 29 appearances. 13 of those goals have been scored in Italy’s top flight.
Napoli would like to keep hold of Osimhen but know the money will be too big to turn down. The report says with so much Premier League interest the player is likely to move on. The question just remains, to which club.
Osimhen will have a choice as long as all interested parties match Napoli’s valuation. Arsenal are also said to be in the hunt as they need at least one new striker.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has not been replaced since leaving in January. Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are also likely to leave on free transfers. There is also a chance that the Gunners could offer him Champions League football. Mikel Arteta’s men are currently sat in fourth but Tottenham are pushing them hard.
That may not be an issue though. La Repubblica have suggested that a lack of Champions League football will not be a deal breaker.
Manchester United will not be able to offer it and they still make the Reds favourites. They claim the chance to work with incoming boss Erik ten Hag is more important.
Victor Osimhen would be a huge statement
Newcastle will splash the cash in the summer and a new striker tops the wanted list. If Eddie Howe is to take the club to the next level he needs a goalscorer.
Callum Wilson has six goals but has struggled with injuries. Chris Wood has managed just two in 15 games since arriving in January. Joelinton has four goals.
Reports claim the new owners are ready to give Howe a marquee signing. Osimhen would certainly be that. It would be a huge statement of intent and a real flexing of the muscles.
It would be a big outlay but he is a goalscorer and they cost big money. Osimhen has all the attributes to make it in the Premier League. Newcastle have the cash. They now just have to fight off Manchester United which will be the hardest part.
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