English Premier League side Manchester United are closing in on the signing of Super Eagles-eligible striker Joshua Zirkzee, as per a report.
The Red Devils’ pursuit of Zirkzee will potentially end their long-term chase for Victor Osimhen, who is poised to move away from Napoli this summer.
Napoli CEO Aurelio De Laurentiis has set a release clause in the region of €120 million for the Super Eagles forward, making it difficult for many interested clubs to sign him due to the high price.
Manchester United and Chelsea are currently cautious of breaching Financial Fair Play regulations, and hitting Osimhen’s release clause could result in penalties.
As a result, the Manchester-based club have been looking for alternatives, and Dutchman Zirkzee, who is also eligible to play for Nigeria through his mother, has become a top priority.
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, United are very close to securing the striker, with personal agreements reached between the club and his camp, leading to the end of their chase for Osimhen.
Meanwhile, Osimhen remains a top priority for Chelsea, who are reportedly looking to offer Romelu Lukaku and Cesare Casadei, plus cash, for the Super Eagles talisman.
Osimhen has not hidden his ambition to play in the Premier League, which a move away from Napoli this summer is still feasible for the Nigerian.
Olaitan Ibrahim