Why Victor Osimhen Has Yet to Join the Premier League: Insights from Andy Cole

Victor Osimhen’s Elusive Premier League Move

Despite being linked with numerous Premier League clubs over the years, Victor Osimhen has never made a transfer to England's top flight. Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole, who often hears about the club’s interest in Osimhen, shared his thoughts with GOAL on why this seemingly logical move hasn’t come to pass.

Osimhen’s European Career Path

Osimhen began his European adventure at Wolfsburg but truly made his mark during a loan spell with Charleroi in Belgium. After a strong 2019-20 season at Lille in France, he secured a high-profile transfer to Napoli. While at Napoli, he enjoyed Serie A title success and scored 31 goals in the 2022-23 campaign. His performances caught the attention of big Premier League clubs such as Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea. Currently, Osimhen plays for Galatasaray in Turkey, where he has netted 65 goals in 78 appearances.

Is Osimhen Suited for the Premier League?

The 27-year-old has the speed, strength, and finishing skills that could make him thrive in England’s top division. When asked about this, Cole 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 urged 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, another ex-France international and goalscorer, 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, champion in Italy with Napoli, and he’s gone to Turkey with Galatasaray and been brilliant, a move that he probably didn’t want, let’s be honest. He’s scored goals at every level. He’s got Champions League experience, and furthermore, he’s got the type of personality and charisma that this United squad could really benefit from. I think he would be a transformational signing for Manchester United. If you think about the pressure he was under at Napoli, leading the club to its first title in 33 years, then he’s the perfect man to lead the line for Manchester United. I think he would have a huge impact at United. I would love to see the club hierarchy move for him; I think he is exactly what we need.”

Potential Interest from Other Premier League Clubs

Despite these endorsements, Manchester United have shifted focus elsewhere, currently relying on Benjamin Sesko as their main striker. Rio Ferdinand has also highlighted Osimhen’s strengths, but no concrete moves have followed. Meanwhile, reigning Premier League champions Arsenal might reconsider Osimhen in future transfer windows, given his proven track record.

• Victor Osimhen’s career stats:
• Napoli 2022-23: 31 goals
• Galatasaray (to date): 65 goals in 78 games