Manchester United Consider Trade Agreement for Osimhen as Hojlund's Tenure Remains Unpredictable
Manchester United Pursue Striker Victor Osimhen in Swap Deal with Napoli
In an attempt to strengthen their squad for the forthcoming season, Manchester United have initiated talks with Napoli over a potential player-plus-cash deal to acquire the services of Nigerian international forward Victor Osimhen. Reports suggest that the Premier League giants might offer Danish forward Rasmus Hojlund as part of the swap.
Sources indicate that Manchester United’s Director of Football Negotiations, Matt Hargreaves, has flown to Naples to engage with Napoli executives in person. Amidst hopes of securing a marquee signing under new manager Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils are considering a player-and-cash offer for Osimhen, currently holidaying after a prolific run at Galatasaray where he netted 36 goals in 40 appearances.
Eager to revitalize his squad following Manchester United’s dismal 15th-place finish last season, Amorim is looking to reshape the team. Despite costing £72 million in 2023, Hojlund has had a challenging second season at Old Trafford, scoring merely four Premier League goals. The future of the 22-year-old Danish forward is now uncertain.
According to Italian outlet Il Napolista, Napoli is open to negotiations involving Hojlund, but the Serie A champions are insisting on an additional €33.7 million to activate Osimhen’s €75 million release clause. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has made it clear that Osimhen will be sold to the highest bidder this summer.
Manchester United’s financial constraints might complicate a direct purchase, leading the club to explore inventive strategies to secure Osimhen's services. Additionally, the mixed performance of Hojlund at United, along with his previous experience with Atalanta in Italy, could potentially make him appealing to Napoli.
Context and Impact
Victor Osimhen: Renowned as one of the hottest properties in world football, Osimhen's impressive record underscores his allure. He was instrumental in Napoli's 2022-23 Serie A championship victory, further boosting his appeal to potential suitors.
Rasmus Hojlund: While only 22, Hojlund's performances for Manchester United have been unpredictable, garnering criticism for his occasional lack of composure in crucial moments. His fluency in Italy might position him as a suitable addition to Napoli's ranks.
The negotiations are in progress, yet a final agreement has yet to be reached. The feasibility of the deal depends on Manchester United’s willingness to meet Napoli's financial demands alongside the proposed player swap.
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The swap deal between Manchester United and Napoli for Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen is being pursued, with Rasmus Hojlund potentially part of the exchange. Osimhen, a sought-after talent in European-leagues, showed his prowess in the Premier League with Napoli and now Galatasaray. Hojlund's uncertain future at Old Trafford following a challenging second season could make him an attractive proposition for Napoli. The negotiations are ongoing, with Napoli reportedly insisting on an additional fee to activate Osimhen's release clause. This prospective move could impact the Premier League and football in Nigeria, as Osimhen continues to be a standout player for the Super Eagles.
