Manchester United have reportedly identified Victor Osimhen as their preferred attacking target for the summer transfer window, with manager Michael Carrick eager to add the Nigerian striker to his squad. The Red Devils are planning an ambitious recruitment drive worth around £200 million after securing a return to the UEFA Champions League with a third-place finish in the Premier League last season.
Osimhen at the top of Carrick's wishlist
According to CaughtOffside, the Galatasaray forward is regarded as Manchester United's 'dream target' as the club searches for a proven goalscorer. Carrick is said to be a huge admirer of the Super Eagles star and believes the Nigerian possesses the pace, movement and finishing ability needed to transform the club's attack. Osimhen's numbers over the last two seasons have only strengthened that belief. Since joining Galatasaray, the 27-year-old has established himself as one of Europe's most feared forwards. Across all competitions, the Nigerian has registered 59 goals and 13 assists in 72 appearances, according to Sofascore.
Rashford's future could influence move
One factor that could complicate any move is the future of Marcus Rashford. The England international has not secured a permanent switch to Barcelona following his loan spell, meaning he could remain part of Carrick's plans next season. Should Rashford rediscover his best form, competition for places in attack could become intense, potentially affecting United's pursuit of Osimhen. Nevertheless, the Nigerian remains one of the club's top priorities. The report added that Manchester United are also exploring alternative options. Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta and Bournemouth youngster Eli Junior Kroupi are among the names being monitored due to their familiarity with English football. Experienced forwards Dusan Vlahovic and Robert Lewandowski, who are available on free transfers, have also reportedly entered discussions as Carrick weighs up multiple possibilities.
Galatasaray determined to keep Osimhen
Despite the growing speculation, Galatasaray have repeatedly insisted that they have no intention of losing their star man. Osimhen himself has spoken warmly about the club and its supporters and has never hidden his appreciation for life in Istanbul. The Turkish champions have also backed their words with actions. Reports from Forza Cimbom in Turkey indicate that Atletico Madrid recently tabled a massive €120 million bid for the Nigerian, only for Galatasaray to reject the proposal. Manager Okan Buruk has consistently dismissed suggestions of an imminent exit. Club president Dursun Özbek has gone even further by declaring that the club would not entertain offers, even if they rise to €150 million. The stance underlines how highly Osimhen is valued by the reigning Turkish champions. His impact since arriving at the club has transformed the team's attack and strengthened their ambitions both domestically and in Europe.
Benitez laments Osimhen's World Cup absence
Legit.ng previously reported that former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez admitted that the absence of Victor Osimhen has reduced the quality of the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Spanish coach identified the Galatasaray striker among the elite players he would have loved to see at the tournament being staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
