Time for Old Trafford? Manchester United legends eye Bruno-Osimhen link-up to usher in Carrick era

Victor Osimhen‘s future has become one of the biggest talking points in European football, with several Manchester United legends urging the Red Devils to make a move for the Super Eagles striker this summer, Afrik Foot reports.

The Nigerian forward has enjoyed another prolific campaign with Galatasaray, but recent comments from Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle have only intensified speculation that a transfer could be imminent.

Ahead of Nigeria’s friendly matches against Poland and Portugal, Chelle revealed that Osimhen had been excused from international duty to focus on a potential club move.

“Victor Osimhen, maybe he is about to change clubs, so I prefer he stays at home,” the Franco-Malian tactician explained.

The statement immediately reignited speculation linking the former Napoli striker to several European giants, with Manchester United once again emerging as a frontrunner.

Manchester United icons back Osimhen move

While United secured the signing of Benjamin Sesko last summer, questions remain over whether Michael Carrick’s side possesses enough firepower to compete on multiple fronts following their return to the UEFA Champions League.

Former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra believes Osimhen is exactly the type of player the club needs.

Speaking to Goal, the Frenchman described the Nigerian as the one signing that the Red Devils should prioritise this summer.

“Osimhen. I have all due respect for Galatasaray, the love he gets there and what the player is like.

“Man United need a proper striker, and I have so much respect for the strikers at Man United, sometimes [Bryan] Mbuemo.

“But, back in the day, we had four amazing strikers, and if you want to play every competition, you need more strikers.

“Of course, you need some defenders, like an extra left back, because you could have an injury and a right-back.

“Of course, Casemiro is leaving, so you need to replace those players. To name one player, I say Osimhen because I know this guy can make the difference,” Evra concluded.

Evra is not alone in that assessment. Former United striker Louis Saha has labelled Osimhen a “transformational signing”, citing the forward’s success in France, Italy and Turkey.

The ex-France international also highlighted Osimhen’s personality and leadership qualities, attributes many believe could help restore United’s winning culture under Carrick.

“I really like Victor Osimhen. He’s definitely got the character, he’s got the quality,” Saha said.

“He’s also got a good European pedigree: he was a success in France, he was a champion in Italy with Napoli, and he’s gone to Turkey with Galatasaray and been brilliant, a move that he probably didn’t want, let’s be honest.

2025-2026 UEFA Şampiyonlar Ligi’nde maçın oyuncusu ödülünü en çok kazanan oyuncular sıralamasında, zirveyi paylaşanlardan birisi de Victor Osimhen! 🌟 pic.twitter.com/xC2dctefdV

— Galatasaray SK (@GalatasaraySK) May 30, 2026

“He’s scored goals at every level. He’s got Champions League experience, and furthermore, he’s got the type of personality and charisma that this United squad could really benefit from.

“I think he would be a transformational signing for Manchester United. If you think about the pressure that he was under at Napoli, firing the club to its first title in 33 years, then he’s the perfect man to lead the line for Manchester United.

“I think he would have a huge impact at United. I would love to see the club hierarchy move for him. I think he is exactly what we need,” the Frenchman concluded.

Bruno Fernandes and Osimhen: A partnership built for goals?

One of the most intriguing aspects of a potential move to Old Trafford is the possibility of Osimhen linking up with United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Fernandes remains one of Europe’s most productive creators, topping the Premier League’s assist charts this season, smashing Thierry Henry’s record [20] with one extra. Additionally, the Portuguese midfielder consistently ranks among the Premier League’s leaders for chances created and key passes.

For years, United have lacked a ruthless finisher capable of converting the volume of opportunities their captain generates.

Osimhen, meanwhile, has built a reputation as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards, combining elite movement, aerial dominance, pace, and relentless pressing, traits that make him tailored to the demands of the English Premier League.

On paper, the partnership appears tailor-made. Fernandes supplies, Osimhen finishes.

While Caught Offside reports that Manchester United view Osimhen as a dream transfer, Italian giants Juventus remain admirers, with Osimhen previously admitting he would enjoy playing for the Turin-based club.