Manchester United could’ve been handed a significant boost to their hopes of signing Victor Osimhen this summer, courtesy of former Arsenal star Olivier Giroud. Osimhen is reportedly among Erik ten Hag’s leading striker targets amid an impressive season at Napoli.
Napoli crashed out of the Champions League in surprising circumstances following their quarter-final exit at the hands of AC Milan.
The San Siro giants, trailing the runaway Serie A leaders by 22 points, edged through with a 2-1 aggregate win.
Giroud redeemed an early penalty miss by scoring the decisive goal in the second leg, setting up an all-Milan semi-final.
But after being handed a favourable run to their first-ever Champions League final, Napoli’s demise will only push Osimhen toward the exit door.
It was a tough reminder that the 24-year-old might not be able to reach the pinnacle of European football in his current position.
After all, if there was ever a season for Napoli to upset the apple cart and claim continental glory, it was this one.
United, under an elite manager like Erik ten Hag and with potential Qatari backing beyond this summer, could offer him what the Naples outfit can’t.
Once he lifts the Serie A title later this term, no one could blame Osimhen for feeling fulfilled after three years in Italy.
The Nigeria international is ready to take a significant next step in his promising career, and United poses as an ideal destination.
By joining the Red Devils, he can earn more money, play in a more competitive league and arguably have a better shot at Champions League success in years to come.
But whether Ten Hag’s interest is ultimately successful will largely depend on the transfer budget at his disposal this summer.
Qatari ownership would likely allow the Dutchman to spend more freely than if Joel and Avram Glazer remain in control with the backing of minority investment.
Napoli are expected to demand a nine-figure fee for Osimhen, who has flourished into one of Europe’s most eye-catching attackers.
And their devastating Champions League exit could provide him with all the motivation he needs to push for a new challenge.
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