Despite the persistent speculation regarding Victor Osimhen‘s potential transfer to Manchester United, the associated financial complexities render such a move highly unlikely.
Osimhen is pursuing a substantial salary that would likely establish him as the highest-paid player within the club. This financial requirement comes as a pivotal condition for his potential transfer to the prestigious Premier League team, Manchester United.
His impressive performance record and market value significantly influence these salary expectations, reflecting his desire to secure a contract that mirrors his contributions on the field.
The Red Devils, who are actively working to reduce their wage bill from last season’s staggering £365 million, are unlikely to pursue such an expensive deal.
Former Manchester City financial advisor Stefan Borson weighed in on the matter, stating that United’s current financial state does not align with signing a player of Osimhen’s profile. Speaking in an interview recently, Borson expressed skepticism about the club’s ability and willingness to afford both the transfer fee and the player’s wages,
“I think there are two aspects to the Osimhen deal, one is whether they could do it, whether they have the cash. I suspect they don’t and would need shareholders to inject more funds or take on additional borrowing,” Borson remarked.
Beyond the financial constraints, Borson suggested that Osimhen does not fit United’s current recruitment strategy.
Under their new transfer policy, the club has prioritised younger players on lower wages to stabilise long-term finances,
“A player like Osimhen is absolutely not the type of target United are pursuing in this phase,” he added.
Even if United could meet Napoli’s expected £62 million price tag, Borson argued that Osimhen’s wage demands would be the biggest obstacle,
“He’s another one of these players who falls into the £20m-a-year bracket. I don’t see United investing again at that level while restructuring,” he explained.
While Osimhen’s next move remains uncertain, one thing appears clear, Manchester United, at least in their current state, are unlikely to be his next destination.
With Arsenal reportedly interested in triggering his €75 million release clause and Chelsea’s past pursuit, the Nigerian forward’s future may lie elsewhere.
For now, Osimhen continues to impress on loan at Galatasaray, where he has notched 22 goals and five assists in 28 appearances this season.
