Manchester United Pulls Back from Osimhen Pursuit Over High Salary Demands
According to sources close to the negotiations, Manchester United feel Osimhen’s salary expectations are “way too high” and not in line with their current wage structure.
Manchester United will not pursue a move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen this summer. Photo/SKy Sports.
By Robert Assad
Manchester United have reportedly cooled their interest in signing Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen due to concerns over his high wage demands, according to The Athletic.
The 25-year-old Napoli forward has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, but his salary expectations appear to have become a major stumbling block for the Red Devils.
Osimhen, who enjoyed a stellar 2022/23 season by firing Napoli to their first Serie A title in over three decades, has attracted attention from several European giants.
However, with a reported release clause in the region of €120 million and a substantial wage package to match, many clubs are reconsidering their approach.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Manchester United feel Osimhen’s salary expectations are “way too high” and not in line with their current wage structure.
The club is said to be focused on maintaining financial discipline as it rebuilds under manager Erik ten Hag, especially in light of recent efforts to reduce the wage bill and offload high-earning fringe players.
Osimhen’s current deal with Napoli, which runs until 2026, is believed to earn him close to €10 million annually — a figure that would place him among the top earners at Old Trafford.
For United, still operating under the constraints of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations and seeking a more sustainable transfer policy, such a commitment could pose long-term financial challenges.
While the Red Devils remain in the market for a new striker to support Rasmus Højlund and bolster their attacking depth, they are now likely to explore more cost-effective options in the transfer window.
Alternatives such as RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško and Ajax’s Brian Brobbey have been mentioned as potential targets.
Osimhen, for his part, has not ruled out a move this summer, but any potential deal will likely depend on whether interested clubs can meet both Napoli’s valuation and his personal terms.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Manchester United’s withdrawal from the Osimhen race highlights a growing trend among top European clubs — prioritizing financial sustainability over headline signings.
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