
Manchester United is preparing for a significant squad overhaul this summer, with club owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe reportedly approving the sale of nine players. This move aims to create room for five major signings, with several high-profile players, including Rasmus Højlund and Marcus Rashford, set to leave. The club’s primary objective is to reinforce the squad with top-tier talent, particularly in the attacking department, as they look to reshape their roster under manager Ruben Amorim.
Unitedâs offensive struggles this season have been evident, with the team managing just 37 goals in 29 Premier League matches. Their lack of firepower in front of goal is a major concern, especially when compared to title contenders like Liverpool, who have scored significantly more. To address this, Amorim, along with technical director Jason Wilcox and recruitment head Christopher Vivell, has prioritized signing a world-class striker to lead the teamâs attacking unit.
Among the potential targets, Victor Osimhen has emerged as the clubâs preferred choice. The Napoli forward has an impressive track record, having scored 140 goals in 258 appearances across several European leagues. His finishing ability and physical presence make him an ideal candidate to spearhead Unitedâs attack in Amorimâs preferred 3-4-2-1 formation.
The competition for Osimhen’s signature had initially been fierce, with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) strongly linked to the Nigerian forward. However, reports suggest that PSG has now withdrawn from the race, as their manager, Luis Enrique, is content with his current attacking options. Chelsea remains a possible contender, but United now appears to have a clear path to securing Osimhenâs services if they act swiftly.
Napoli had reportedly explored the idea of a swap deal involving United players, with names like Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Højlund, and Joshua Zirkzee mentioned as possible trade options. However, recent reports indicate that United is not willing to include Højlund in any exchange, as they still see him as a long-term asset despite his struggles in front of goal this season.
Transfer expert David Ornstein has also downplayed the possibility of United parting ways with Højlund in a swap deal. He highlighted the clubâs significant investment in the Danish striker last summer and suggested that United is more likely to raise funds by offloading other players rather than engaging in a complicated trade agreement with Napoli.
The financial aspect of the deal remains a key factor, with Osimhenâs release clause set at approximately âŹ75 million (ÂŁ62.7 million, $81 million). While this is a substantial fee, it is considered reasonable given the strikerâs pedigree and impact. With other clubs hesitating, United has a unique opportunity to secure a marquee signing who could transform their attacking fortunes.
Ultimately, Manchester Unitedâs summer transfer plans will revolve around strategic sales and high-profile acquisitions. With Ratcliffe backing a squad revamp and Amorim pushing for a new striker, the Red Devils are set for a busy transfer window as they aim to rebuild and compete at the highest level.
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