Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is reportedly willing to accept a weekly wage just under £200,000 to join Manchester United, casting fresh light on earlier claims that he was seeking a staggering £300,000 per week. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, such figures were “wide of the mark.”
“He just wants his current salary — around €12 million net annually (£10.2 million) — to be respected, nothing different,” Romano told Givemesport. This development could reignite Manchester United's interest, especially under INEOS’s new cost-conscious regime that is scrutinising the club’s bloated wage structure.
United’s Striker Search: Opportunity or Illusion?
Osimhen’s willingness to adjust expectations could solve a major issue for United, who are keen to sign a natural centre-forward to complement Rasmus Højlund. Despite his potential, Højlund struggled with consistency last season, while Joshua Zirkzee, another potential target, is seen more as a support striker than a traditional No. 9.
With Mason Mount earning £250,000 per week, Osimhen’s wage request appears relatively modest for a player of his calibre — especially after netting 37 goals and 8 assists in all competitions during a loan spell at Galatasaray, where he helped clinch a historic domestic double.
Transfer Battle Heats Up: Liverpool, Juventus, Galatasaray Lurk
Osimhen’s €75 million release clause — valid only for foreign clubs — has drawn interest from Liverpool, who are reportedly exploring a swap deal involving Darwin Núñez. Juventus remain an attractive option for the Nigerian, whose preference reportedly leans toward the Turin-based club due to their project and prestige.
That said, his rejection of a massive £30 million-a-year offer from Al Hilal underscores a clear ambition to stay in top-tier European football.
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand weighed in on the saga, hinting that the striker may be holding out for a move to Old Trafford:
“It looks like he’s turned down Al Hilal… he must be waiting for Manchester United. I don’t know if Manchester United are going to come. That’s the problem.”
Legacy in Naples and the Road Ahead
Since joining Napoli in 2020, Osimhen has notched 76 goals and 18 assists in 133 appearances, becoming a key figure in their 2022/23 Serie A title triumph. With his contract set to expire next summer, Napoli are eager to cash in — and will likely prefer to sell abroad due to his foreign-only release clause.
While Galatasaray remain interested in a permanent transfer, competition is intensifying. With Manchester United considering options and Juventus pushing hard, Osimhen’s next move could define not just his future, but reshape the attacking fortunes of any club that secures his signature.