Osimhen vs Sesko: Three traits that put Super Eagles star ahead in Man United’s striker search

Premier League heavyweights Manchester United could revive their pursuit of Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen during the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

Osimhen has remained at the centre of transfer speculation since the end of last season, with several top European clubs monitoring his situation ahead of the window.

The 27-year-old has been linked with Real Madrid, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Arsenal, as they all look to strengthen their attack with the addition of the Nigerian forward.

Although the former Napoli star has previously expressed a desire to continue at Galatasaray, and the Turkish club also remain adamant they do not want to sell, a significant offer could still change the situation.

Manchester United eye ‘dream’ target Osimhen

According to CaughtOffside, Victor Osimhen has emerged as Manchester United’s dream target for the centre-forward position, with the club already exploring the possibility of a summer deal.

The Red Devils are undergoing a major squad rebuild as they aim to return to trophy contention, with striker reinforcement seen as a key priority to provide competition for Benjamin Šeško.

While they also have other options on the table including the likes of Dušan Vlahović, Robert Lewandowski, Eli Junior Kroupi and Jean-Philippe Mateta, Osimhen remains their top choice if a deal can be struck and it is easy to see why the Nigerian striker has become their preferred option.

Osimhen’s goalscoring ability 

One of the Nigerian’s biggest strength is his proven goalscoring ability, which has remained consistent throughout his career.

The Super Eagles striker is a constant threat inside the box, using intelligent movement and sharp positioning to convert chances which is why he has become one of the most sought-after players in Europe.

In just 74 appearances for Galatasaray, he has scored 59 goals and despite missing part of last season due to injury, he still managed 22 goals in all competitions – more than any Manchester United player over the same campaign.

He has also delivered strong performances across Europe in Belgium, France and Italy, and a move to England would not be expected to unsettle him.

Champions League experience

Another major advantage Osimhen brings is his experience in elite European competition. Manchester United are set to return to the Champions League after a two-year absence, but many players in the current squad lack consistent experience at that level.

The Super Eagles star, however, is already proven on the biggest stage. He has scored 16 goals in 27 Champions League appearances and has consistently delivered in big matches.

In the most recent campaign, he scored seven goals, including against Liverpool, and won four Man of the Match awards, which was the most of any player to have played the competition.

His experience at this level could prove very key for United’s ambitions in Europe.

Osimhen’s style fits Manchester United attack

Osimhen’s playing style also makes him very key with his ability to drop deep and linkup play with his teammates, while still carrying out his main duties as a centre-forward.

A potential front line featuring Osimhen alongside the likes of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo would give Manchester United much flexibility and constant rotation in attack, which would play a big role in unsettling defences.

Last season, he created five big chances and also registered five assists, showing his ability to contribute beyond goals.

Despite his quality, any move for Osimhen would come at a significant cost. Galatasaray are expected to demand a major fee if they eventually changed their stance, and only a few clubs could realistically meet their valuation.

Manchester United, however, are have the financial capacity this summer, although it remains to be seen whether they are willing to meet the asking price.

If a deal is agreed, Osimhen could soon find himself at Old Trafford and could become the second Nigerian player to represent the club after Odion Ighalo.