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Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo and ex-international Obafemi Martins have backed Victor Osimhen to join Manchester United, insisting the striker would thrive at Old Trafford, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Speaking to AfricaFoot, Martins expressed confidence in Osimhen’s ability to transform United’s attacking prowess if a transfer materialises.
“If he comes into this team, everything changes, especially in terms of the way they score goals,” Martins said. “He has speed and power, but also finishing. He is one of the best finishers in Europe, and he has proven it in successive seasons.”
The 2023 CAF African Footballer of The Year, who is currently on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray from Napoli, has attracted interest from several top clubs following his impressive form that has seen him net 13 goals in 16 appearances.
Yobo also believes a move to United would be perfect for the striker, who helped Napoli claim their first Serie A title in 33 years last season.
“For me, it’s a no-brainer. Victor and Manchester United are a perfect fit, and there’s no doubt he would thrive if they signed him,” Yobo told Africafoot.
“Even though they’re struggling in transition, Manchester United remains one of the top three clubs in the world, and that’s not going to change anytime soon.”
The former Everton defender also praised United’s new manager, Rúben Amorim, urging Osimhen to consider the offer seriously.
“Their project is exciting, and they have a new coach in Amorim, who is one of the best in his generation. If Amorim wants Victor Osimhen to be one of the leaders of this project in transition, he shouldn’t think twice. He should take it,” Yobo added.
Earlier reports suggested Napoli’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, had discussions with Osimhen regarding a potential move to Manchester, with the Italian club reportedly including a €90m release clause in his contract.
However, Liverpool have also joined the race for the striker’s signature, with incoming sporting directors Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards viewing him as an ideal replacement for Darwin Nunez.
The 26-year-old recently turned down a January move to United, which angered Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis.
“Then let him stay where he is. Tell Galatasaray to take Osimhen,” De Laurentiis was quoted as saying by La Repubblica.
The Nigerian insists he will remain in Turkey until the end of the season.
“I will not leave in January, I am at Galatasaray until the end of the season,” Osimhen told reporters after scoring a brace against Tottenham in the Europa League.
“I do not know what Galatasaray and Napoli are talking about afterwards, but if they come to me, we will talk. Galatasaray is a nice club that I like very much. I am very happy at Galatasaray.”
