Man United and Chelsea Dealt Major Victor Osimhen Blow with Striker Close to Agreeing Surprise Move
Manchester United and Chelsea have both been dealt a significant blow in their pursuit of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, as reports indicate the Nigerian star is edging closer to a surprise move elsewhere. Long considered a top target for both Premier League giants, Osimhen’s potential switch to an unexpected destination could derail summer transfer plans at Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge.
Osimhen’s Rise to Stardom
Victor Osimhen has become one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe following his exceptional performances for Napoli. The 25-year-old Nigerian international played a pivotal role in Napoli’s historic 2022/23 Serie A title win, netting 26 goals in the league and establishing himself as one of the deadliest strikers in world football. His mix of pace, strength, and clinical finishing has attracted attention from several elite clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and more recently, clubs from Saudi Arabia.
Osimhen’s goal-scoring prowess and physical profile make him an ideal fit for the Premier League, particularly for teams looking to rebuild their attacking lines. Manchester United have struggled with consistent striker performances in recent seasons, while Chelsea have yet to solve their No. 9 conundrum following unsuccessful spells from Romelu Lukaku, Timo Werner, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
United and Chelsea’s Interest
Both English clubs have monitored Osimhen closely over the past two seasons. Manchester United, in particular, identified him as a priority target to bolster their frontline. Erik ten Hag is looking for a dynamic forward to complement the developing Rasmus Højlund, and Osimhen’s proven track record in Italy and European competition made him a prime candidate.
Chelsea, under the direction of Enzo Maresca and sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, were also keen to bring in a prolific striker who could lead their young, talented squad. Despite their massive investment in recent transfer windows, the Blues have lacked a consistent goal scorer — a gap Osimhen was expected to fill.
Surprise Destination: Saudi Arabia?
However, the latest developments have thrown a wrench into the plans of both clubs. Reports emerging from Italian and Middle Eastern outlets suggest Osimhen is close to agreeing a move to the Saudi Pro League — a destination that few predicted at this stage of his career. Al-Ahli and Al-Hilal are believed to be in advanced negotiations, with a lucrative offer that far surpasses anything currently on the table from European clubs.
While PSG has shown interest in Osimhen as a possible replacement for Kylian Mbappé, Saudi clubs are willing to meet Napoli’s €120 million release clause and offer the forward a contract worth more than €40 million per year — a financial package neither Manchester United nor Chelsea are prepared to match.
Implications for Man United and Chelsea
If Osimhen opts for the Middle East, both Premier League clubs will be forced to pivot their summer transfer strategies. Manchester United may revisit their interest in players like Joshua Zirkzee (Bologna) or Ivan Toney (Brentford), while Chelsea could accelerate their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško or Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres.
Missing out on Osimhen not only represents a tactical setback but also a symbolic one — showing that even Europe’s most prestigious clubs can be outmuscled financially by the growing influence of the Saudi Pro League.
Napoli’s Role in the Deal
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has made it clear that Osimhen would only leave if his release clause is met. The Serie A club has been resigned to losing the striker since late 2023, especially after he declined to extend his contract further. While Napoli would have preferred selling to a Champions League contender, they are unlikely to turn down a full-cash bid that meets their valuation.
Conclusion
Victor Osimhen’s impending move away from Napoli marks the beginning of a major transfer domino effect this summer. Manchester United and Chelsea, once considered front-runners for his signature, must now quickly reassess their options. The striker’s potential switch to the Saudi Pro League underscores the evolving power dynamics in global football, where financial muscle increasingly dictates market movements.
With the transfer window set to open soon, both English giants face critical weeks ahead in their quest to secure elite firepower for the 2025/26 campaign. As for Osimhen, his next move could redefine not just his career — but the transfer strategies of Europe’s biggest clubs.