Dream move collapses: Victor Osimhen will not join Manchester United

Victor Osimhen is not on Manchester United's radar.

Dream move collapses: Victor Osimhen will not join Manchester United

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 21:49 - 23.04.2025

Osimhen to Man United? No chance, says Ornstein. Despite 30 goals at Galatasaray, the Nigerian star isn't on United's list. Club eyes Hojlund, others for summer transfer window.

Speculation surrounding a potential move for Victor Osimhen to Manchester United has been firmly quashed by respected journalist David Ornstein, who confirmed the Super Eagles striker is not on the club’s transfer radar. 

Despite earlier reports of an “agreement in principle” and plans to trigger Osimhen’s release clause, United are set to focus on other options or internal solutions, such as young forward Rasmus Højlund.

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Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has been a revelation this season, netting an impressive 30 goals in 34 appearances. 

His prolific form fueled rumours of a blockbuster move to Old Trafford, with some reports suggesting United were prepared to pay Napoli’s reported €75m (£64.2m) release clause to secure the 26-year-old Nigerian. 

Speculation intensified amid claims that United might offload Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee as part of a squad overhaul, positioning Osimhen as a prime candidate to lead their attack.

Victor Osimhen is on loan from Napoli.

However, Ornstein’s latest update has poured cold water on those hopes. Speaking on the matter, in a video posted on X, he clarified that Osimhen is “not on Manchester United’s agenda” for the summer transfer window. 

“If Manchester United are to look at others, i am sure it would not be Victor Osimhen,” he stated. “Despite reports, you might be reading, he is not on the agenda for Manchester United.” 

“They would have other options, because they might have to turn them or stick with internal solutions such as Rasmus Hojlund,” he added.

Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim is expected to sign a striker this summer.| Instagram

The club’s uncertain prospects for European competition next season have reportedly led to caution in pursuing high-profile signings, with United hesitant to open formal talks for Osimhen or other major targets.

Instead, the Red Devils are expected to explore alternative striking options or rely on existing squad members. Hojlund, despite a modest eight-goal campaign, remains a key part of United’s long-term plans, and the club may also consider promoting from within their ranks.

The news marks a significant shift from earlier reports that had United fans dreaming of Osimhen’s dynamic presence in their frontline. 

Rasmus Hojlund has scored only three goals in the Premier League this season for Man United.

For now, the Nigerian star’s future lies elsewhere, leaving Manchester United to chart a different course as they aim to bolster their attack ahead of the 2025/26 season.

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