Man United suffer Victor Osimhen blow as striker expresses love for Napoli: report

Manchester United's chances of signing Victor Osimhen this summer may have taken a hit, after the Napoli striker declared his love for the Serie A leaders.

Osimhen, 24, has been in prolific form for Luciano Spalletti's Partenopei this season, banging in 25 goals to help them to the cusp of a first scudetto since 1990 and into the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time ever.

The Nigerian international's scoring exploits have sparked plenty of speculation about his future, with Bayern Munich and Chelsea also said to be interested.

Has Osimhen hinted that he wants to stay at Napoli, though? Speaking to Italian TV after returning from injury in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Hellas Verona, he said:

"It was tough for me to make my dream come true of becoming a professional football player and now [I am] about to win [a trophy] for the first time. I’m at a great club and my career is growing constantly. I am already at one of the biggest clubs and I could not ask for more. Forza Napoli always!"

Osimhen went on to describe his appreciation for the Napoli supporters – who, barring a cataclysmic end to the campaign, will soon see their team crowned champions of Italy for the third time. He added:

"The affection from the city is extraordinary, I have never received so much love. I can’t wait to celebrate with [the fans] at the stadium."

Having started out with Wolfsburg, Osimhen signed for Belgian outfit Charlleroi in 2018 – before joining Lille the following year.

After just one season in France, he was on the move again, with Napoli pouncing to secure his services for a club-record €70m (£62.5m).

Transfermarkt currently value Osimhen at €100m (£89.3m); such a fee would make him Man United's second-most expensive signing of all time.

More Manchester United stories

Man United could face competition from Liverpool in the race to sign Ryan Gravenberch from Bayern Munich this summer – but former Liverpool star Sadio Mane has been linked with a shock switch to United, after falling out with Bayern teammate Leroy Sane following Tuesday's Champions League loss to Manchester City.

However, Marcel Sabitzer – currently on loan at United from Bayern – has prompted rumours that he could move to Old Trafford on a permanent basis, saying that he has 'found his place' with Erik ten Hag's side. Joao Felix has also emerged as a target for United, with Chelsea thought to be hesitant to make loan spell from Atletico Madrid permanent.

Meanwhile, American investment firm Carlyle are reportedly interested in buying a minority stake in United.