Victor Osimhen’s decision: Why the Napoli-owned Galatasaray star will not join Manchester United in January

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly turned down a potential January move to Manchester United, opting to remain at Galatasaray until the end of the season, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigerian international, one of the most sought-after forwards in European football, was expected to leave Napoli last summer after the Italian club signaled their willingness to let him go.

Despite interest from Chelsea and Saudi Arabian clubs, no deal materialised, leaving Osimhen and Napoli in a precarious situation.

A breakthrough came when Galatasaray capitalised on Turkey’s extended transfer window to secure the 25-year-old on a season-long loan.

The move allowed Osimhen to continue playing first-team football and included a break clause permitting him to leave in January if one of ten pre-approved clubs submits a bid.

Manchester United, reportedly among the interested parties, have been monitoring Osimhen’s progress since his breakout in Serie A.

However, Turkish Football reports that the striker is not interested in a midseason exit from Galatasaray.

Osimhen would reject advances from United and any other club this winter as he is more than happy to see out his loan spell at Galatasaray, the report states.

The forward has thrived in Turkey, scoring nine goals and providing five assists in 12 matches.

Meanwhile, Manchester United’s attacking options under Ruben Amorim are flourishing.

Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee each scored braces last week, while Marcus Rashford has netted three goals since the arrival of the Portuguese head coach. 

Although Osimhen may remain at Galatasaray for now, the door is not closed for a summer transfer, leaving United and other suitors hopeful for future negotiations.