:by Kunle Fadipe-
Manchester, UK – In a stunning development that has sent ripples through the summer transfer market, Nigerian sensation Victor Osimhen has reportedly chosen to join Manchester United, turning down a colossal €160 million offer from Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal.
The 26-year-old Napoli striker’s decision, first reported by Spanish outlet Fichajes, signals a dramatic shift in his future, with Old Trafford now his preferred destination despite the Red Devils’ absence from European football next season.
Osimhen, who spent last season on loan at Galatasaray, is widely expected to depart Napoli permanently this summer. Manchester United has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the race for his signature, a move driven by their urgent need to bolster an attack that saw Rasmus Højlund struggle for consistent form since his 2023 arrival. The club’s pursuit of a proven goalscorer intensified after missing out on Liam Delap to Chelsea earlier in the window.
The Super Eagle has been a hot commodity, linked with Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Juventus in recent months. However, Al-Hilal’s staggering financial proposal had seemingly placed them in pole position until Osimhen’s surprising decision to prioritize a move to the Theatre of Dreams.
Adding weight to the reports are the prophetic words of former United defender Rio Ferdinand. Speaking on his YouTube channel in June, Ferdinand openly championed Osimhen’s arrival, stating, “No.9? They already know who I want. Osimhen! It looks like he’s turned down Al-Hilal… he must be waiting for Man Utd. I don’t know if United are going to come. That’s the problem.” It now appears Ferdinand’s prediction may be coming to fruition.
Napoli, meanwhile, is already planning for life without their prolific forward. The Italian club has reportedly identified Fiorentina’s Moise Kean as a potential replacement, though Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez is considered too expensive at an estimated €80 million.
With Osimhen’s Napoli contract set to expire in 2026, Manchester United will need to act swiftly. While his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) stands at €67.9 million, Napoli is expected to demand the full €75 million release clause be met.
If successfully completed, Osimhen’s arrival would undoubtedly be the marquee signing Erik ten Hag’s squad needs to reignite their Premier League ambitions. United fans across the globe are now holding their breath, eagerly awaiting confirmation that this reported breakthrough will indeed become a done deal.
