Andy Cole Explains Why Premier League Clubs Haven't Signed Victor Osimhen Despite Interest
Victor Osimhen has been linked repeatedly with Premier League clubs over the years, yet a transfer to England has never materialized. Andy Cole, former Manchester United striker, shared his thoughts with GOAL on why a deal that seems logical for many English teams has not come together.
The Path of Osimhen in Europe
Osimhen began his European journey with Wolfsburg before making a significant impact during a loan spell at Charleroi in Belgium. He then impressed at Lille in France during the 2019-20 season, which led to a high-profile move to Napoli.
In Italy, Osimhen enjoyed Serie A success, netting 31 goals in the 2022-23 season and earning attention from top Premier League clubs regularly. Teams like Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea have all reportedly considered pursuing him. Currently, he plays in Turkey for Galatasaray, boasting an outstanding record of 65 goals in 78 appearances.
Would Osimhen Fit in the Premier League?
At 27, Osimhen possesses attributes such as pace, strength, and clinical finishing that suggest he could thrive in England’s top division. When asked about this, Cole, who won the Treble with United in 1999, 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 Sign Osimhen
Several former United players have encouraged the club to pursue 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, ex-France international and goalscorer, also praised Osimhen's qualities and experience:
"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, was a champion in Italy with Napoli, and now brilliant in Turkey with Galatasaray, a move he probably didn’t want, let’s be honest. He’s scored goals at every level and has Champions League experience. He has the personality and charisma this United squad could benefit from.
I think he would be a transformational signing for Manchester United. Think about the pressure he handled at Napoli, leading the club to its first title in 33 years. He’s the perfect man to lead the line for United. I’d love to see the club’s hierarchy move for him; he is exactly what we need."
Interest Remains Unfulfilled
Despite these endorsements, United have yet to act on the advice, shifting focus elsewhere and currently listing Benjamin Sesko as their only true striker. The reported interest in Osimhen may resurface, and other Premier League sides like reigning champions Arsenal might revisit the idea of signing the proven Nigerian forward in future transfer windows.
- Player: Victor Osimhen
- Age: 27
- Previous Clubs: Wolfsburg, Charleroi, Lille, Napoli, Galatasaray
- Goals at Napoli (2022-23): 31
- Goals at Galatasaray: 65 in 78 games
- Premier League Clubs Linked: Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea
