Italian Serie A side, Napoli, have debunked rumours about agreeing a deal with Manchester United for a player plus cash offer for Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 25-year-old joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli in September, and has been in fine form for Okan Buruk’s side, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in nine games in all competitions.
As per Cult of Calcio, there’s some element of truth to the rumours about Manchester United offering a trade between Victor Osimhen and Joshua Zirkzee, but Napoli aren’t open to the idea.
The Italian side want cash payment upfront for the Nigerian striker from any team that are interested in his services, and will hold out for that, even if they have to wait until next summer.
Despite Osimhen and Galatasaray ruling out the possibility of a January departure, Napoli made it clear that it’ll depend on the offers they receive. The suitors will have to reach an agreement with the Turkish outfit too. Another transfer will be possible if a team activates the striker’s reduced release clause of €75m.
Manchester United’s swap deal will see Napoli get €30m plus Zirkzee which would see them fall short of about €45m than their initial target. Additionally, Antonio Conte’s side are not looking for another striker at the moment and are very content with the services of Romelu Lukaku.
Rather than tweaking the frontline, Antonio Conte has asked for some reinforcements in the defence, and Napoli would need to make sales for that, ruling out Manchester United’s swap deal option.
Chelsea are still interested in Osimhen, but any talks will have to be continued after the season ends in May.