Napoli and Manchester United are reportedly deep in negotiations for the potential transfer of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, with the Italian club open to offering the Premier League side a discount on his current release clause.
As per Il Mattino, Napoli director Giovanni Manna has travelled to London for face-to-face discussions with United representatives. It’s believed that Napoli are prepared to reduce their asking price in order to avoid strengthening domestic rivals Juventus, who are also interested in the 26-year-old.
Osimhen, currently on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray, is expected to make a permanent move this summer after failed switches to Saudi Arabia and Chelsea last year. Although his release clause has dropped to €75 million (£64 million), Napoli are reportedly willing to negotiate a lower figure with English clubs.
“It’s certainly difficult to negotiate with Juventus, who have also opened talks with Osimhen’s camp,” Il Mattino added. “Victor wouldn’t mind joining Juventus, but tensions between sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli and Napoli remain a hurdle.”
United are believed to have made Osimhen their top summer target, according to transfer expert Rudy Galetti. Despite United’s ongoing struggles and potential absence from European competitions, the Nigerian is said to be open to a move to Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are also thought to have held discussions with Manna during his London visit, but are prioritising Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, who manager Enzo Maresca reportedly views as a better tactical fit.
Other top European clubs including Arsenal—who have allegedly submitted a bid—Liverpool, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring Osimhen’s situation.
Napoli’s existing positive relationship with United, following Scott McTominay’s transfer last summer, could work in United’s favour during talks.
Osimhen has been in blistering form for Galatasaray this season, scoring 28 goals in 32 games. For now, he remains focused on helping the Turkish side secure both the Super Lig title and the Turkish Cup.
