Manchester United Approach Victor Osimhen Amid Uncertainty Over Rashford and Zirkzee Futures
By Okafor Joseph Afam, December 17, 2024
Manchester United have reportedly reignited their interest in Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen as uncertainty looms over the futures of Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee at Old Trafford.
Rashford’s absence from the squad during last weekend’s Manchester derby, a critical decision by new manager Ruben Amorim, has intensified speculation that his long tenure with the club might be drawing to a close. Although Rashford has contributed seven goals across all competitions this season, all his Premier League strikes have come against bottom-five teams. Questions persist about his ability to deliver consistently against stronger opponents, and being benched after scoring twice against Everton only adds fuel to the fire.
The situation is not much better for Zirkzee. The Dutch forward’s two goals in the 4-0 thrashing of Everton tripled his season tally, a statistic that underscores his struggles since arriving in Manchester. Despite a standout campaign with Bologna last season, Zirkzee has found it hard to adapt to the demands of Premier League football, with Italian clubs reportedly circling for a January deal to take him back.
In light of these developments, United have turned their focus to Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian striker, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has been in sensational form, netting 11 goals in just 14 appearances. Despite a brief injury setback, Osimhen made his return as a late substitute in Galatasaray’s thrilling 4-3 victory over Trabzonspor on Monday night.
Osimhen’s move to Turkey was unexpected. After Antonio Conte’s arrival at Napoli last summer, tensions grew between the striker and the Serie A club, prompting a transfer. While Chelsea were heavily linked, no deal materialised, leaving Galatasaray as his short-term destination.
However, Napoli’s loan agreement expires at the end of the season, and the club remains open to permanent offers, potentially even in January. According to CaughtOffside, Manchester United have already made an initial approach, eager to secure the proven goal scorer as they look to resolve their number nine dilemma.
The Red Devils’ need for a clinical striker is no secret. While Rashford’s role as a central forward has often been debated and recent signings have underwhelmed, Osimhen stands out as a proven talent. The 25-year-old has hit double figures for league goals every season since 2018-19, delivering consistently for Charleroi, Lille, and Napoli.
With seven goals in the Turkish Super Lig already before the halfway mark, Osimhen’s record speaks for itself. His impressive numbers, combined with his physical presence and lethal finishing, make him a prime candidate to lead Manchester United’s attack into a new era.
As United prepare for the January transfer window, all eyes will be on whether they can convince Napoli to part ways with their prized asset and, in turn, resolve the growing uncertainty surrounding Rashford and Zirkzee.
