Manchester United are reportedly plotting a move for Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, with a proposal that could see struggling Red Devils forward Joshua Zirkzee head in the opposite direction.
The potential swap deal has surfaced as United look to bolster their attack under new manager Ruben Amorim.
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli in September, has been in exceptional form, netting eight goals and providing four assists in just nine appearances for the Turkish giants this season.
Despite his impressive contributions, the 25-year-old Nigerian is expected to return to Naples next summer, as reports suggest the possibility of cutting his loan short in January is unlikely.
The striker’s current situation stems from a fallout with Napoli after his inability to secure a permanent move during the summer transfer window.
Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain were the primary suitors, while lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia were also reportedly on the table.
However, Osimhen rejected the Saudi Pro League interest, emphasizing his ambition to remain in European football.
Chelsea and Arsenal are still closely monitoring Osimhen’s situation, but Manchester United have emerged as serious contenders.
Reports indicated that United could use Joshua Zirkzee, who has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford, as part of a potential swap deal with Napoli.
Journalist Gerardo Fasano shared insights on the situation in an interview with Area Napoli. He explained that Amorim, United’s head coach, is exploring the possibility of including Zirkzee in negotiations to land Osimhen.
“Manchester United is said to be on the trail of Victor Osimhen. I have been told that the English, through mister Amorim, could include the former Bologna striker Zirkzee in the negotiations for Osimhen,” Fasano said.
“Zirkzee could help [Romelu] Lukaku find himself. Money plus Zirkzee for Osimhen. Amorim has understood that Sporting Lisbon could ask too much for [Viktor] Gyokeres and is testing the waters for Osimhen.
“Zirkzee might not be the ideal striker for the coach. The former Bologna player would instead help Lukaku next season: the two would form an important pair. However, Juventus is also interested in Zirkzee and can count on Thiago Motta, a coach who has greatly enhanced the player.”
Zirkzee’s struggles at United have been evident, with the Dutchman failing to score since the opening matchday of the 2024-25 Premier League season.
Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund, another of United’s attacking options, has managed only one league goal this term. This underperformance has heightened United’s urgency to secure a reliable striker.
Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, a prolific forward for the Portuguese side, is considered United’s primary target.
Gyokeres has publicly commented on the possibility of a move to Old Trafford, adding intrigue to the transfer saga.
However, Osimhen remains a strong alternative, given his proven goal-scoring record and recent form.
Osimhen’s time at Napoli has been marked by success, with the striker amassing 76 goals and 18 assists in 133 appearances.
His remarkable start at Galatasaray further solidifies his status as one of Europe’s elite forwards. For Manchester United, a deal involving Zirkzee could pave the way for both clubs to address their respective needs—United in attack and Napoli in supporting Romelu Lukaku next season.
As January approaches, all eyes will be on how Manchester United navigate their striker hunt, with Osimhen, Gyokeres, and Zirkzee forming the key pieces in this unfolding transfer puzzle.
