Why Has No Premier League Club Signed Victor Osimhen? Andy Cole Weighs In After Chelsea and Man Utd Links
Victor Osimhen's Elusive Move to the Premier League
Despite repeated rumors linking Victor Osimhen to several top English clubs, no Premier League transfer has ever materialized. Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole, speaking to GOAL, shed light on why a move for the Nigerian forward—often linked with teams like Chelsea and Manchester United—has yet to happen.
The Path of Osimhen in European Football
Osimhen began his European career at Wolfsburg but first gained significant attention during a loan spell at Charleroi in Belgium. His 2019-20 season at Lille marked his rise, leading to a high-profile transfer to Napoli. There, he enjoyed Serie A title success, netting 31 goals in the 2022-23 season alone. Premier League giants such as Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea have all reportedly considered moves for him over time.
Currently, Osimhen plays for Galatasaray in Turkey, boasting an impressive record of 65 goals in 78 appearances, maintaining remarkable individual standards.
Could Osimhen Excel in the Premier League?
At 27, Osimhen possesses the speed, strength, and clinical finishing that seem tailor-made for English football. When asked about this, Andy Cole said:
"He does. He scores goals. He scored goals in Italy and he’s scoring goals in Turkey as well. But, you know, it depends. There’s many different factors in signing a player from a respective country. It’s not all about just the salary or the transfer fee. There could be many different things that go on. If he does come to the Premier League, which I think he will be very good in the Premier League, you never know who he’ll go to."
Calls for Manchester United to Pursue Osimhen
Several ex-United players have urged their former club to sign Osimhen. Patrice Evra recently told GOAL:
"A striker, someone who scores a goal. I think that’s what I’m looking at. That’s why for me, Osimhen is the best. He’s a perfect example."
Louis Saha, former France international and fellow goal scorer, praised Osimhen’s qualities and potential impact at Old Trafford:
"I really like Victor Osimhen. He’s definitely got the character, he’s got the quality. He’s also got good European pedigree: he was a success in France, a champion in Italy with Napoli, and he’s gone to Turkey with Galatasaray and been brilliant, a move that he probably didn’t want, let’s be honest. He’s scored goals at every level. He’s got Champions League experience, and furthermore, he’s got the type of personality and charisma that this United squad could really benefit from.I think he would be a transformational signing for Manchester United. If you think about the pressure he was under at Napoli, firing the club to its first title in 33 years, then he’s the perfect man to lead the line for Manchester United. I think he would have a huge impact at United. I would love to see the club hierarchy move for him, I think he is exactly what we need."
Will Other Premier League Clubs Renew Interest?
Despite this strong backing, Manchester United have focused elsewhere, currently having Benjamin Sesko as their only main striker. Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has also praised Osimhen’s talents, but the club has yet to act decisively.
Other Premier League sides like reigning champions Arsenal might revisit interest in Osimhen in upcoming transfer windows, given his proven scoring ability and consistent performance across leagues.
