Man Utd 'identify Victor Osimhen as top transfer target' with '£85m+ move plotted'

Manchester United have identified Napoli star Victor Osimhen as a top target for the summer transfer window, according to a new report.

Erik ten Hag's side have been heavily linked with making a move for Tottenham forward Harry Kane, whose deal at the club expires next summer.

The Daily Mirror's Simon Mullock reports that Spurs will demand £100 million for any sale this summer, with Kane's other suitor, Bayern Munich, said to be reluctant to get involved in a bidding war at that price.

That would certainly encourage United that a deal can be done, but Ten Hag has identified several alternatives that the club can move for if Kane does not arrive at Old Trafford.

Various reports claim that one of those alternatives is Osimhen, with the Nigerian striker in top form for Napoli this season. He has 21 Serie A goals to his name this season, and is the leading goalscorer in the division. ESPN claim his value is at least €100 million (£88.5m).

He has also netted four goals in five Champions League as he looks to help the Italian side to their first European crown.

Napoli are not traditionally known for selling players in their prime, however, unless a deal suits the club - but United are reportedly prepared to test the resolve of owner Aurelio de Laurentiis.

Man Utd 'assign Osimhen as top target'

According to Football Insider, United have now assigned Osimhen as a top target after turning down the opportunity to sign Wout Weghorst on a permanent deal at the end of the season.

The Dutchman has had a solid impact on Ten Hag's side, with his hold-up play and off-the-ball movement adding an extra dynamic to United's attack.

But he has not been a consistent source of goals, with both of his goals since arriving in January coming in cup or continental competitions. Weghorst has been dropped to the bench for United's last two fixtures against Brentford and Everton.

Football Insider claim that Osimhen could be the striker to fill the void once Weghorst's loan ends, with Ten Hag looking for a long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portuguese legend departed the club via mutual consent in December.