22 June 2023 , 23:00
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Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has been instructed to sign Napoli sensation Victor Osimhen as competition for Marcus Rashford.
The Red Devils’ academy graduate enjoyed a sensational season in front of goal last term. In what was the most prolific campaign of his career so far, he scored 30 goals in all competitions.
Despite that, United and Ten Hag are still keen to add to their attacking options this summer. The club are keen to move for a big-name forward and have been linked with some of the most dangerous frontmen in world football over recent weeks - one of those has been Napoli striker Osimhen.
He is fresh off the back of winning the Serie A title - the 24-year-old’s 26 league goals pivotal in the Italian side ending their long drought. Former United defender Mikael Silvestre believes that he would be the ideal signing for the Red Devils.
Speaking to FourFourTwo in association with Freebets.com, the Frenchman said: “I would like to see Osimhen of Napoli at Manchester United. I think his characteristics and mental strength would fit United well.
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“He would give the strikers a lift and compete with Marcus Rashford for a place upfront. He could also play alongside him, and would be an excellent addition.”
Mikael Silvestre has urged Man United to sign Victor Osimhen (Getty Images)Which striker do you think Man Utd should sign? Share your suggestions in the comments below
Silvestre is not the only former United star who believes that Osimhen would prove to be an ideal signing for the club ahead of the 2023/24 season Rio Ferdinand has also urged his ex-employers to make a move for the Nigerian as an alternative to Tottenham star Harry Kane, even if it breaks the bank.
Speaking on his Vibe with Five podcast, he said: “I'd sign Kane in a heartbeat, he has gone under the radar because of [Erling] Haaland but I am not waiting and playing games in July.
“If he said no, I'd move straight on to Osimhen. Even if he's £150m, do it. Look at the market. Who else is there? There’s no one ready-made.”
United might well be interested in making a move for Osimhen but face competition for him should they attempt to strike a deal with Napoli. Premier League rivals Chelsea have also been linked, whilst Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are potential suitors.
If the Red Devils are unable to sign him then they could turn to Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund but Ferdinand is not totally convinced that a move for the Dane would be the right fit.
“He’s not ready-made, ain’t done it properly at the top consistently,” the former defender added. “You’re buying him off the back of a season.”
Eintracht Frankfurt star Randal Kolo Muani could also be a potential candidate for a move to Old Trafford.