Manchester United confirms  Alejandro Garnacho swap deal with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen after rejecting an initial €40m 

Manchester United confirms  Alejandro Garnacho swap deal with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen after rejecting an initial €40m

 

Manchester United have taken a decisive step in their pursuit of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen by rejecting a €40 million bid from the Italian club for Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentine winger has been a focal point in Napoli’s search for a replacement for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who is set to join PSG in a €70 million transfer.

 

 

United’s decision to retain Garnacho underscores his value to the club, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe reportedly unwilling to let the talented 20-year-old leave unless their €70 million valuation is met. This stance has cooled Napoli’s interest for now, with the Serie A side exploring alternatives such as Bologna winger Dan Ndoye.

 

Garnacho’s potential role in securing Osimhen, however, remains a key consideration for Manchester United. The Nigerian striker, who has expressed his desire to leave Napoli and is currently on loan at Galatasaray, is a “dream” target for the Red Devils. Transfer expert Ben Jacobs has acknowledged the financial hurdles involved, noting that even with Osimhen’s release clause dropping to €75 million, the deal is challenging.

 

 

United could explore a swap deal involving Garnacho to facilitate Osimhen’s move to Old Trafford. Such an exchange would benefit all parties: United would secure their ideal striker, Napoli would gain a talented winger to fill Kvaratskhelia’s void, and Garnacho would have the chance to make his mark in Serie A, following in the footsteps of the legendary Diego Maradona.

 

While these types of transfers are complex and rarely straightforward, there is a strong motivation from all sides to make it work. Nevertheless, any significant progress on this front is expected to be delayed until the summer, as financial constraints and Garnacho’s high valuation make a mid-season swap unlikely.

 

Garnacho’s inclusion in United’s broader plans reflects their measured approach to squad management, particularly as they navigate financial pressures and potential Profitability and Sustainability Regulation (PSR) challenges. Players like Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo have also been discussed as “pure profit” assets, but United appear determined to retain their key talents unless an exceptional opportunity arises.

 

Ultimately, Manchester United’s firm stance on Garnacho’s valuation keeps their hopes of landing Osimhen alive, providing an intriguing storyline for the summer transfer window.

 

According to Metro, West Ham United are reportedly preparing to challenge Manchester United for the signing of England international Angel Gomes, a former United academy graduate.

 

Gomes made his first-team debut for Manchester United in 2017 at just 16 years old but struggled to find consistent opportunities under José Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjær.

 

He ultimately moved to French side Lille on a free transfer three years later, where his career has flourished.

 

At Lille, Gomes has established himself as a key player, leading Ligue 1 in assists last season and earning his first England caps earlier this campaign.

 

With his contract expiring this summer, speculation has intensified about his potential return to the Premier League.

 

Reports in November suggested that Manchester United were interested in re-signing Gomes, with head coach Ruben Amorim reportedly giving his approval.

 

However, recent reports from talkSPORT indicate that West Ham, under new manager Graham Potter, have entered the race to sign the 24-year-old.

 

The Hammers are also eyeing Lille striker Jonathan David, another player whose contract expires at the end of the season.

 

 

David has been in remarkable form, contributing 17 goals and seven assists in 30 appearances, and is also attracting interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham.

 

Gomes has hinted that he would not dismiss the possibility of returning to Old Trafford, acknowledging that his connection to the club remains strong.

 

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole has also expressed enthusiasm about a potential reunion, stating that Gomes could significantly enhance the team.

 

 

Reflecting on the player’s departure, Cole remarked that Gomes had faced criticism about his size but has proven his abilities by succeeding in France and earning international recognition.

 

Manchester United will focus on maintaining their form when they face Brighton on Sunday, while West Ham take on Crystal Palace in a crucial London derby.

 

Both clubs appear determined to strengthen their squads, with Gomes’ availability adding intrigue to the upcoming transfer window.