Osimhen, Lewandowski, Watkins: Ranking Man United’s top 5 transfer targets

Victor Osimhen remains the name most strongly linked with Manchester United as the club searches for a new leading striker ahead of the 2026/27 season, Afrik-Foot reports.

While the Nigerian forward is now fully committed to Galatasaray after completing a permanent move from Napoli, he continues to sit at the top of the Red Devils’ attacking shortlist.

Galatasaray recently completed Osimhen’s €75 million transfer from Napoli earlier than expected, settling all payment obligations and securing the striker on a contract until June 2029. The deal significantly strengthened the Turkish champions’ position, making any immediate exit difficult.

The Istanbul club has repeatedly made its stance clear. Galatasaray officials regard Osimhen as untouchable and are reportedly unwilling to consider offers below €150 million. Napoli also protected themselves during negotiations by including a special clause that would force Galatasaray to pay a €70 million penalty if the Nigerian is sold to another Serie A club before the summer of 2027.

That restriction has effectively ended speculation linking Osimhen with a quick return to Italy, where clubs such as Juventus had previously shown interest.

Despite Galatasaray’s strong negotiating position, Europe’s biggest clubs continue to monitor the 27-year-old striker. Barcelona were recently offered the opportunity to sign him but reportedly declined as they concentrated their efforts elsewhere. Chelsea and Arsenal have also been credited with interest, while Manchester United remain the club most frequently associated with a potential move.

Osimhen has consistently maintained that his focus remains on his current team, although he has never hidden his admiration for the Premier League and the possibility of playing in England one day.

Why Osimhen leads Manchester United’s 5-man striker wishlist

Manchester United’s recruitment team faces enormous pressure to improve a frontline that struggled for consistency in front of goal last season. With Benjamin Šeško already viewed as part of the club’s long-term attacking project, the focus has shifted toward finding a proven goalscorer capable of transforming the team’s attack immediately.

At the top of that list is Victor Osimhen. United view the former Napoli star as the complete package. His pace, aerial ability, physical strength and penalty-box instincts make him one of the most feared centre-forwards in European football. More importantly, Osimhen has demonstrated his goalscoring ability across multiple leagues, from Belgium and France to Italy and Turkey.

The Nigerian’s performances during Napoli’s Serie A title-winning campaign and his continued productivity at Galatasaray have convinced many within football that he is ready to lead the line for one of Europe’s biggest clubs. He represents the statement signing capable of energising Man United’s supporters and transforming the team’s attack for years to come.

However, the financial realities surrounding a deal mean United are exploring alternative options.

Second on the shortlist is Robert Lewandowski. The veteran Polish striker remains one of football’s most reliable finishers despite approaching his 38th birthday. United admire his experience, leadership qualities and elite movement inside the penalty area. Club executives believe he could provide immediate goals while helping younger forwards such as Šeško develop their game.

Another serious option is Ollie Watkins. The Aston Villa forward has built a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most dependable attackers. His work rate, intelligent movement and consistent scoring record make him an attractive target, particularly because he has already proven himself against English opposition week after week. Watkins would also require less adaptation time than many overseas recruits.

Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson continues to be monitored as well. United scouts appreciate his speed, pressing intensity and ability to operate across several attacking positions. Jackson’s athletic profile suits modern football, although any attempt to negotiate with a direct rival would likely prove difficult and expensive.

The final name on the list is Eli Kroupi Jr. The young Bournemouth attacker fits perfectly into INEOS’ long-term strategy of recruiting emerging talent with high potential. Unlike the other names on the shortlist, Kroupi is viewed as a developmental option rather than an immediate starter. His arrival would likely complement a more established signing rather than replace one.

Among all five candidates, Osimhen remains the standout choice.

While Lewandowski offers experience, Watkins provides Premier League reliability, Jackson brings versatility and Kroupi represents the future, Osimhen combines many of those qualities in one player. He is entering his prime years, has experience competing in major European competitions, and possesses the profile United believe can elevate them back into contention for domestic and continental honours.

Still, Galatasaray hold all the cards at the moment. But if Manchester United decide to pursue a blockbuster striker signing this summer, Victor Osimhen remains the player they would most like to bring to Old Trafford.