Former Manchester United striker, Andy Cole, has suggested that factors beyond transfer fees and wages may have contributed to Premier League clubs failing to sign Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen.
The Nigeria international has been linked with several English clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea, but none has been able to secure his services.
Cole believes Osimhen possesses the qualities required to thrive in England, while noting that clubs consider several issues when deciding whether to sign a player.
“He does. He scores goals. He scored goals in Italy and he’s scoring goals in Turkey as well,” Cole said.
“But, you know, it depends. There are 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 at, you never know who he’ll go to.”
Osimhen started his European career with German club Wolfsburg before gaining prominence during a loan spell with Belgian side Charleroi.
He subsequently moved to Lille and later Napoli, where he played a key role in their Serie A title triumph in the 2022/23 season.
The striker scored 31 goals during that campaign and has maintained his impressive goalscoring form since joining Galatasaray, registering 65 goals in 78 appearances for the Turkish club.
His performances have continued to fuel speculation over a possible move to the Premier League, with Manchester United among the clubs repeatedly linked with him.
Former United defender Patrice Evra recently backed the club to sign the Nigerian, saying he represents the kind of striker the team needs.
“I think Osimhen is the best. He’s a perfect example,” Evra told GOAL.
Former France international Louis Saha has also encouraged United to make a move for the 27-year-old, pointing to his goalscoring record, Champions League experience and achievements with Napoli and Galatasaray.
However, despite the backing from former United players, the club have not made a move for Osimhen and instead signed Benjamin Sesko as their main out-and-out striker.
Osimhen remains contracted to Galatasaray, although continued interest from Premier League clubs could see his name return to the transfer spotlight in future windows.
