The battle for Victor Osimhen is heating up this summer, and it’s no longer just a Premier League affair. Juventus have re-entered the frame, throwing a spanner in Manchester United’s long-standing pursuit of the Nigerian striker, and the saga is quickly becoming one of the most closely watched of the transfer window.
United have been keeping tabs on Osimhen for months, with club legend Rio Ferdinand publicly voicing support for his signing. The Red Devils are hunting for a new No.9 after landing Matheus Cunha and missing out on young talent Liam Delap. But as they hesitate, the Old Lady is making her move.
Fresh reports from Italy reveal that Juventus have resumed negotiations with Osimhen’s representatives. The striker, who just wrapped up a prolific loan spell at Galatasaray, is seen as their top attacking priority, even above Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres, also on United’s radar.
Napoli’s asking price remains a major hurdle. Osimhen has a €75 million (£64m) release clause, but only for clubs outside Italy. For Juventus, that means face-to-face negotiations with Napoli, a club unlikely to do them any favors easily, especially following their recent Serie A triumph.
Osimhen’s intentions are clear. Despite a jaw-dropping offer from Saudi side Al Hilal, he’s determined to stay in Europe. His contract expires in a year, which puts Napoli under pressure to sell or risk losing him for nothing.
Manchester United still appear interested, but with no European football this season, their appeal may not be as strong as Juventus, who are back on the rise. Meanwhile, Chelsea, another past suitor, have stayed quiet this summer.
The clock is ticking, and Osimhen’s next move could define the striker market this window. Will United finally act decisively? Or will Juventus steal their dream forward from under their noses?
