Victor Osimhen to Man United: 3 reasons a shock Old Trafford move could happen

Victor Osimhen’s name is back in the Manchester United transfer story, with the Galatasaray striker linked with a possible move to Old Trafford before the summer window closes, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigeria international has attracted interest from several major European clubs, but one former United striker believes there is a personal reason why Manchester could appeal to him.

Louis Saha has told Metro that Osimhen is a United supporter and believes the striker could have a major impact at the club. Saha’s comments come at a time when United are still assessing their options in attack under manager Michael Carrick.

United already have Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo among their forward options. However, Joshua Zirkzee’s uncertain future could change the club’s plans. Fiorentina are in talks over a possible loan move for the Dutchman, while United have been linked with other strikers if he leaves.

Why Osimhen to Manchester United can still happen

Osimhen reportedly wants Manchester United

The first factor is the player’s reported affection for United. Saha, who played for the club between 2004 and 2008, said Osimhen’s interest in United is genuine. He believes the Chelsea-linked Nigerian does not see Old Trafford only as another possible destination.

“I know for a fact that Victor Osimhen is a Manchester United fan. He loves Man United. I have seen it in his eyes, the impact the club has on him, and he sees the impact he could have on this team,” Saha said, as cited by Metro.

That connection could matter if United make a serious approach. Osimhen has already played at the highest level in Italy, France and Turkey. He has also scored important goals in the Champions League and has become one of Africa’s leading strikers.

Saha believes the 27-year-old, who looks increasingly likely to stay at Galatasaray this summer, has the personality needed for English football.

“He is a very confident player. He is like Erling Haaland. He doesn’t need to see the ball very often to score goals. If he is not getting the chances he needs, he will demand them. This is the type of player United need to sign.”

That profile fits a United side that needs a striker who can attack crosses, run behind defenders and turn limited chances into goals.

United need another proven No. 9

United have attacking talent, but there is a strong case for adding a proven centre-forward. Sesko is the club’s current No. 9, while Cunha and Mbeumo can also play through the middle. Mbeumo played up front during pre-season while Sesko was unavailable, and he scored three goals across his final three summer starts.

But United’s opening league match exposed the need for more attacking options. Carrick’s side lost 2-0 at newly promoted Hull City on matchday one. The result came after United entered the season with high expectations following their return to European football.

Saha believes Osimhen would bring something different.

“You look at his experience. He has scored 20 goals every season. He has the character, the belief, he works hard and he is unpredictable. He can make assists and he would be a good fit for the Premier League, physically. There is absolutely no doubt about that.”

Osimhen would also give United a striker with a long record of producing goals. His ability to lead the line could allow Cunha and Mbeumo to play in wider or supporting roles instead of carrying the central attacking burden.

Zirkzee’s uncertain future could open the door

The clearest route to another major striker signing could be Zirkzee’s departure. United signed the Netherlands international from Bologna for £36.5 million in July 2024. He has scored nine goals in 75 appearances for the club, and his place in Carrick’s plans has become uncertain.

Fiorentina have advanced talks over a season-long loan, with reports suggesting a move back to Serie A is possible before the transfer window closes.

A Zirkzee exit would create space for United to add another forward. Reports have already linked the club with experienced strikers such as Ivan Toney and Jean-Philippe Mateta, while Igor Matanovic has also been mentioned as a possible replacement.

If Zirkzee leaves, United need another striker, and Osimhen is the type of proven No. 9 Saha believes could transform the attack. The remaining question is whether United would go beyond their other options to make a major move for the Galatasaray star before the window closes.