Manchester United Drops Interest in Osimhen

Manchester United has reportedly stopped chasing Victor Osimhen because of his high transfer fee and salary, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

The Nigerian striker is one of the top forwards in Europe. But even with his great form in Turkey, Manchester United's recruitment team has decided to look for other players this summer.

For a long time, fans have dreamed about Osimhen playing for United. Former players like Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra have openly asked the club to sign him.

But that dream seems to be over now. The 27-year-old has been doing well in the Turkish Super Lig. Still, the high cost of bringing him to England, along with his big salary, which is helped by good tax rules in Turkey, has stopped the move to the Premier League club.

Tyrone Marshall from Manchester Evening News said the "ship has sailed" for a transfer to United. The reality of paying a big transfer fee and meeting Osimhen's salary demands makes the deal impossible.

Osimhen is valued at about €150 million, and his yearly salary is around €14 million.

The report also mentions that United are now looking at other strikers.

"With the Osimhen deal off, United are focusing on a more balanced attack. The club believes in Sesko's potential but knows they need other options too.

A five-man shortlist is ready, including Premier League-ready players like Jean-Philippe Mateta, who can bring experience and guidance. The aim is to avoid rushed deals and ensure the squad is strong enough for the Champions League."

While the door for Osimhen seems closed, another might be opening in Barcelona. Reports say that Barcelona sees Benjamin Sesko as a possible long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

Even though Julian Alvarez is the main target for Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco, trouble in negotiations with Atletico Madrid has made Barcelona consider other options, including the Slovenian player.

However, United is not paying much attention to the rumors from Spain. The club reportedly sees Sesko as their future No. 9 and has not received any official offer from Barcelona.

Marshall added, "United haven’t had any offer or expression of interest from Barcelona for Sesko and aren’t taking those links seriously right now. There was quite a bit of frustration over how Barca handled the Marcus Rashford situation, so United will be careful about doing business with them for a while."

As for Osimhen, he seems ready to start his third season with Galatasaray. He impressed during his loan and has kept up his good form since making the move permanent from Napoli.