In what could be one of the biggest transfer stories of the upcoming summer window, Nigerian international Victor Osimhen has reportedly agreed personal terms with Premier League giants Manchester United. The development signals a significant step forward in what has been a long-standing pursuit of the prolific Napoli striker.
Sources close to the deal have confirmed that Osimhen is keen on a move to Old Trafford and has given the green light for the transfer to proceed, pending negotiations between Manchester United and Napoli over a final transfer fee.
United’s Long-Term Target
Osimhen has been on Manchester United’s radar for over a year. The Red Devils have struggled with consistency in their attacking department, and with uncertainty surrounding the future of players like Anthony Martial and the ongoing development of Rasmus Højlund, United’s hierarchy sees Osimhen as the ideal candidate to lead the line.
The 26-year-old forward, who helped Napoli secure their first Serie A title in over three decades during the 2022/2023 season, has continued to impress with his physicality, pace, and clinical finishing. His performances have attracted interest from several top European clubs, but it appears that Manchester United have now moved ahead in the race.
Terms and Expectations
While exact details of the agreed personal terms have not been disclosed, it is understood that Osimhen has agreed to a long-term contract that would make him one of the highest-paid players at the club. The contract reportedly includes performance-related bonuses and image rights agreements, which were key elements during discussions.
The Nigerian striker is said to be excited about the opportunity to play in the Premier League and is particularly enthusiastic about the prospect of leading Manchester United’s frontline under Erik ten Hag, who has been pushing for a proven goal-scorer to bolster the squad.
Negotiations with Napoli Remain
Despite the agreement on personal terms, Manchester United must still navigate negotiations with Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, who is known for his tough stance in transfer dealings. Napoli are expected to demand a fee close to Osimhen’s release clause, which is believed to be in the region of €120 million.
De Laurentiis has previously stated that Osimhen would only leave on the club’s terms, and with other clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea monitoring the situation, Napoli will likely use the interest to their advantage in any discussions.
Manchester United, however, are optimistic about striking a deal. The club is expected to generate significant funds from player sales and sponsorship deals this summer, and the new ownership structure under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS Football Group has shown a willingness to invest heavily in key areas.
Player’s Desire Key to the Move
What could tilt the balance in United’s favour is Osimhen’s reported preference for a move to the Premier League and his admiration for the club. Sources suggest that he sees United as the right environment to take his career to the next level, particularly in terms of global visibility, brand growth, and competitive football.
A move to Manchester United would also place him among a rich lineage of African talents who have graced the club, including the likes of Quinton Fortune, Eric Bailly, and Odion Ighalo—Osimhen’s fellow Nigerian, who had a short loan spell with the Red Devils in 2020.
Fan and Media Reaction
The news of Osimhen agreeing personal terms has already sparked widespread excitement among Manchester United supporters. Many see him as the missing piece in the puzzle, a striker with the consistency and tenacity that United have lacked since the departure of prime-era Romelu Lukaku and the aging of Edinson Cavani.
Football analysts have also weighed in, praising Osimhen’s well-rounded attacking profile. Former United striker Dwight Yorke commented during a broadcast appearance, “Osimhen is a beast of a striker. He’s got that hunger and movement that Premier League defenders fear. If United can pull this off, it changes everything.”
What Comes Next
As the summer window approaches, all eyes will be on negotiations between Manchester United and Napoli. If the clubs can reach a financial agreement, the Red Devils may soon unveil one of the most high-profile signings of the summer.
Victor Osimhen’s potential arrival could signal a new era for Manchester United’s attack—one built on pace, power, and a hunger for goals.
For now, the deal is not done, but the wheels are firmly in motion.
