Why Premier League clubs failed to sign Osimhen — Cole
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineFormer Manchester United striker Andy Cole has suggested that factors beyond transfer fees and salaries may have prevented Premier League clubs from signing Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen has been linked with Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea in recent years, but none of the clubs completed a deal for the Nigeria international.
Cole, however, believes the 27-year-old possesses the quality to succeed in the Premier League, while pointing out that several considerations can influence a transfer.
Cole said: “He does. He scores goals. He scored goals in Italy and he’s scoring goals in Turkey as well.
“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 began his European career with Wolfsburg before establishing himself during a loan spell at Belgian side Charleroi.
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He subsequently moved to Lille and then Napoli, where he helped the Italian club win the Serie A title during the 2022/23 season.
The striker scored 31 goals that campaign and continued his goalscoring form after moving to Galatasaray, where he has registered 65 goals in 78 appearances.
His performances have continued to attract interest from Premier League clubs, particularly Manchester United.
Former United defender Patrice Evra recently backed the club to sign Osimhen, describing the Nigerian as the type of striker the team needs.
Evra said: “I think Osimhen is the best. He’s a perfect example.”
Former France international Louis Saha has also urged United to pursue the striker, pointing to his goalscoring record, Champions League experience and success with Napoli and Galatasaray.
Despite the recommendations from the former United players, the club did not make a move for Osimhen and instead signed Benjamin Sesko as their main out-and-out striker.
Osimhen remains under contract with Galatasaray, although interest from Premier League clubs could resurface in future transfer windows.
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