Manchester United Hold First Meeting Over Osimhen Deal

Manchester United have taken a major step in their pursuit of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen by holding initial talks with the player’s representatives, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Foot Mercato confirmed that “a meeting took place in the last few hours between the Nigerian striker’s entourage and Manchester United,” signalling the start of formal discussions between both parties.

Osimhen, who made a surprise loan switch to Turkey late in the last transfer window, has enjoyed a blistering spell with his current club, scoring 33 goals and providing 8 assists in just 37 appearances across all competitions.

His form has made him a sensation in Istanbul, but he remains under contract with Italian side Napoli, as the move was a straightforward loan.

Despite leading the Turkish Super Lig and being on course to claim the title, Osimhen’s current club are not expected to have the financial capacity to retain his services on a permanent basis.

Foot Mercato reports that the 26-year-old striker is drawing attention from two primary destinations ahead of the summer, Saudi Arabia and the Premier League.

Nevertheless, Osimhen is said to favour a switch to the Premier League, a league with the financial muscle to meet his substantial wage demands. Foot Mercato notes that the striker is seeking an annual salary of €12 million, a figure few clubs outside England could accommodate.