Victor Osimhen refused to join Man Utd because he had 'too much respect' for former player

Victor Osimhen turned down a transfer to Manchester United in 2020 because he had "too much respect" for one of the club's first-team players.

The 25-year-old striker, who became the most expensive African player ever in the summer of 2020, when he joined Napoli from Ligue 1 side Lille, has been linked with a move to United in recent days.

In fact, United officials have identified Osimhen as a potential replacement for Marcus Rashford, according to Sky Sports Switzerland, who suggest the club are already in contact with the striker's entourage.

The report adds: "Already in contact with his representative, Manchester United will have no trouble reaching an agreement on personal terms with the 25-year-old Nigerian."

Osimhen could 'finally realise his dream' of joining the ranks at Old Trafford but four years ago, the striker decided against signing for United.

Osimhen is currently on loan at Turkish side Galatasaray. Image credit: Getty

After scoring 18 goals in 38 appearances during the 2019/20 campaign, Osimhen was wanted by a host of clubs in Europe, including United.

In fact, Victor's brother, Andrew, claims he rejected the move because of fellow countryman Odion Ighalo's presence at Old Trafford.

"It is very true that Manchester United wanted Victor, but he told me something like he had too much respect for Odion Ighalo to be competing for shirts with his senior colleague," Andrew Osimhen told Complete Sports.

"My brother holds Ighalo in high esteem and he just didn't see himself going to Old Trafford to battle for a striking role with the highest goalscorer at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt."

Ighalo completed his dream move to Manchester United in January 2020 on a season-long loan from Chinese Super League club Shanghai Shenhua, and later extended his deal at United until January 2021.

Osimhen, meanwhile, joined Serie A side Napoli for a fee of £74 million.

Back in April 2020, Osimhen refused to rule out a move to the Premier League in the future, admitting he wants "to play for a big club in England one day." The Nigerian striker also thanked Ighalo for his career advice.

"Of course, one day I'd like to play for a big club in England." he told The Independent in 2020. "I've spoken to Odion [Ighalo] about it. He gave me very good advice, he's a legend and a big brother. My goal is to play at one of the biggest clubs in the world."

Do you think the Nigerian would be a hit at Old Trafford? Let us know in the comments.