Manchester United have shelved their pursuit of Victor Osimhen as Saudi clubs prepare a lucrative €75 million deal, making them favourites to secure his signature.
Manchester United have shifted their summer transfer focus away from the Nigerian striker and are now targeting Ipswich’s Liam Delap as their primary signing. The decision reflects the club’s intent to balance ambition with financial responsibility. United face tight budget constraints and must prioritise realistic options.
Victor Osimhen, aged 26, has excelled on loan at Galatasaray this season, netting 30 goals in 35 appearances across all competitions. His prolific scoring record highlights his status among Europe’s elite forwards. Those figures underline his lethal finishing and unwavering consistency.
He remains tied to Napoli by a €75 million release clause, a sum that outstrips the funds allocated for new recruits. This valuation effectively places him beyond United’s current transfer budget. In contrast, Delap could arrive for approximately £30 million if Ipswich suffer relegation, offering clear value.
Opting for the less costly Delap would free up resources for Manchester United to pursue additional targets such as Matheus Cunha. Cunha, 24, found the net 12 times in 33 appearances for Wolves last season, demonstrating his potential impact. Club officials aim to conclude deals swiftly to integrate new signings before pre-season begins.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian sides have emerged as front-runners to land Osimhen by triggering his full release clause. Gulf clubs stand ready to back him with a wage package reportedly reaching £750,000 per week. Such financial firepower underlines the growing allure of Middle Eastern football.
Last summer, Osimhen agreed personal terms with Al-Ahli before talks collapsed when Napoli raised their valuation after examining a rival bid for Ivan Toney. That breakdown provided a stark reminder that even release clauses cannot guarantee a transfer. The striker himself remained open to the move until negotiations faltered.
Al-Hilal stand out as the most likely Saudi destination, holding ample funds after missing out on other marquee targets. The club retained resources earmarked for Mohamed Salah, ensuring they can offer competitive terms. Their financial muscle makes them well-placed to secure a marquee signing this summer.
Club insiders dismiss reports of a verbal agreement between Osimhen and Manchester United, clarifying that no formal understanding exists. United remain fully committed to signing Delap and refuse to be distracted by speculation. This clarity dispels any confusion over Old Trafford’s priorities.
Paris Saint-Germain could reignite interest in the striker if he remains in Europe, having pursued him last summer with a substantial offer. However, they fell short of meeting Napoli’s demands when his release clause exceeded €120 million at the time. PSG’s interest highlights his standing as one of Europe’s most sought-after attackers.
As things stand, Osimhen will depart Napoli but not for Old Trafford, leaving Saudi clubs as his most plausible next home. His remarkable goal record and age suggest he still has plenty of top-level years ahead. United fans will instead await Delap’s debut while the striker’s final destination takes shape on the other side of the Gulf.
