Manchester United have been on the hunt for a new striker throughout the ongoing transfer window, understandably so given their lack of clinical edge in the final third last season.
Ruben Amorim’s side only managed to score 44 times in the Premier League throughout 2024/25, struggling to produce the numbers that would catapult them to success.
Striker Rasmus Hojlund cost £72m back in the summer of 2023, but ultimately has struggled to match such a price tag, as seen with his tally of four league goals last time around.
Such a tally was the highest of any centre-forward within the first-team squad, highlighting the need for a new talisman if they are to be a success at any point in the near future.
Numerous players have been linked with a move to join the Red Devils this window, as the hierarchy look to hand the manager the tools he desires at Old Trafford.
The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer
Dusan Vlahovic has emerged as a surprise target for United this summer, potentially moving to the Theatre of Dreams as part of a deal which could see Jadon Sancho move to Juventus.
He’s not the only striker on their radar, with Chelsea outcast Christopher Nkunku a player they’re targeting as the Frenchman looks set to depart Stamford Bridge this window.
However, another name has entered the mix in recent days, with Napoli forward Victor Osimhen a player they’re targeting, according to Italian outlet Corriere Del Mezzogirno.
They claim that Amorim’s side have been in constant contact with the striker’s representatives after he scored 37 goals in his 41 outings on loan at Galatasaray in 2024/25.
It also states that the 26-year-old still dreams of a move to the Premier League this window, but could demand a hefty wage if he is to make the move to England during the off-season.
Previous reports have suggested Napoli have a valuation of £64m for the attacker.
Why United’s latest target would be a better signing than Watkins
Despite the interest elsewhere, United have also been extremely keen on a deal to land Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, with the Englishman potentially the man to fill the void.
The 29-year-old has been a constant threat to many backlines across England’s top-flight, registering a total of 60 goals across the last three seasons, helping Unai Emery’s side reach various European competitions.
However, he’s been subject to various offers from different sides across the country, with Arsenal just one of the sides who made an offer for the striker in January.
His future remains up in the air once again this summer, potentially leaving Villa Park after a £60m price tag has been mooted for his signature throughout this summer.
The Red Devils have been in the race once again, but they would be better off pursuing a move for fellow target Osimhen, with the Nigerian a better option for Amorim’s side.
When comparing their respective stats from the 2024/25 season, the Napoli star has managed to massively outperform him in numerous key areas, highlighting what a sensational addition he would be this summer.
Osimhen, who’s been hailed as a “monster” by data analyst Ben Mattinson for his form over the last few years, has massively outscored the Englishman, whilst also posting a higher shot on target accuracy rate – showcasing the clinical edge he possesses in the final third.
|
How Osimhen compares to Watkins throughout 2024/25 |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Statistics (per 90) |
Osimhen |
Watkins |
|
Games played |
30 |
38 |
|
Goals & assists |
31 |
24 |
|
Shots on target per 90 |
2.2 |
1.2 |
|
Goals per shot on target |
0.4 |
0.3 |
|
Shot on target accuracy |
46% |
39% |
|
Aerials won |
4.3 |
1.8 |
|
Fouls won |
1.9 |
1.1 |
|
Take-on success |
60% |
24% |
|
Stats via FBref |
||
He’s also posted a better goal per shot on target rate, whilst also winning more aerial battles, demonstrating the all-round presence he commands in the final third.
The Nigerian has also completed more take-ons and drawn more fouls per 90, handing Amorim the tools he’s been craving in the final third since his appointment.
Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Napoli forward would cost this window, it’s evident that he has shown he would be a better addition in their quest for success.
Both players would improve the options currently at the manager’s disposal, but Osimhen will give him the best possible chance for success in the club’s quest for glory next season.
Related
Roy Keane rates him: Man Utd in talks to sign £42m star who’s Cunha 2.0
Manchester United could be about to land a star who could be the next Matheus Cunha.
