Why Premier League Clubs Have Yet to Sign Victor Osimhen: Andy Cole Explains
Despite links to several top English clubs over the years, Victor Osimhen has never made a move to the Premier League. Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole shared insights with GOAL about why this transfer, which seems logical for many Premier League teams, has yet to happen.
Osimhen’s European Career Path
Osimhen began his European journey with Wolfsburg but truly made an impact during a loan spell at Charleroi in Belgium. His breakthrough came in the 2019-20 season with Lille in France, after which he secured a big-money transfer to Napoli.
While in Italy, Osimhen enjoyed Serie A title success and scored 31 goals in the 2022-23 season. His performances caught the attention of Premier League clubs such as Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea. Currently, he plays for Galatasaray in Turkey, where he has scored an impressive 65 goals in 78 appearances.
Would Osimhen Suit the Premier League?
The 27-year-old forward possesses the pace, strength, and goal-scoring ability ideal for England’s top flight. When asked about Osimhen’s fit for the Premier League, Cole said:
“He does. He scores goals. He scored goals in Italy and he’s scoring goals in Turkey as well. But it depends. There are many factors in signing a player from another country. It’s not just about salary or transfer fees. If he comes to the Premier League, which I think he’d be very good in, who knows which club he’ll join.”
Calls for Manchester United to Sign Osimhen
Several former United players have urged the club to pursue Osimhen. Patrice Evra told GOAL that what United needs is “a striker, someone who scores goals,” calling Osimhen “the best” example of that.
Ex-France striker Louis Saha praised Osimhen’s qualities, saying:
“I really like Victor Osimhen. He’s got the character and quality. He has European experience: success in France, a title in Italy with Napoli, and now brilliance in Turkey. Though he probably didn’t want that move, he’s scored at every level and has Champions League experience. His personality could benefit United’s squad. He would be transformational. Considering the pressure he handled at Napoli to deliver their first title in 33 years, he’s the perfect man to lead United’s attack.”
Future Prospects for Osimhen in England
Despite such endorsements, United has focused elsewhere, currently having only Benjamin Sesko as a pure striker. Still, rumors of interest in Osimhen may resurface, and other Premier League clubs like reigning champions Arsenal might reconsider a proven striker in upcoming transfer windows.
- Victor Osimhen’s stats at Galatasaray: 65 goals in 78 games
- Serie A 2022-23: 31 goals for Napoli
- Premier League clubs linked: Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea
- Current age: 27
