Victor Osimhen holding out for 'dream' Man Utd move as Red Devils consider offering Joshua Zirkzee to slash Napoli's €75m demands

Osimhen is destined for a departure from Napoli this summer despite having a contract with the Serie A champions until 2026. He garnered heavy interest from Saudi heavyweights Al-Hilal, who were willing to offer a €120 million (£100m/$135m) package on a three-year deal. However, the forward declined all advances from Al-Hilal, asserting his desire to continue in Europe, where he dreams of a move to the Premier League. One English team that he has been linked with intensely over the season are United, who could still provide an opportunity to Osimhen to fulfil his dream this summer.

According to a report from La Gazzetta dello Sport, United have reignited their pursuit of Osimhen, who has decided that he will not be leaving Europe. United are reportedly reluctant to meet Osimhen's €75m (£63m/$85m) release clause, but are exploring the possibility of offering out-of-favour forward Joshua Zirkzee as part of a deal to lower the overall cost. The Red Devils hope this approach will convince Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis to accept a reduced fee for the Nigerian striker. United see Osimhen as the key to reigniting their fortunes after a disappointing season, which saw them finish just above the relegation zone and suffer a defeat in the Europa League final to rivals Tottenham.

Zirkzee may be open to a return to the Serie A, where he impressed with Bologna. It's clear that he won't be a part of Ruben Amorim's plans next season after the acquisition of Matheus Cunha from Wolves. Reports indicated that Champions League finalists Inter were planning a loan for the Dutchman, with an option to buy him at the end of his stint. On the other hand, United's interest in Osimhen must have solidified after losing out on top target Liam Delap to Chelsea.

Osimhen's choice to reject a move to Al-Hilal effectively rules out his involvement in the upcoming Club World Cup, meaning his next appearance in club football will come with the start of the new season. The striker, who netted 37 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions last season, already has an offer from Turkish giants Galatasaray, having played a pivotal role in their Super Lig title triumph.