Why Premier League teams failed to sign Osimhen – Cole

n n

Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole says several factors beyond transfer fees and salaries may have prevented Premier League clubs from signing Victor Osimhen.

n

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.

n

Speaking to GOAL, Cole said Osimhen has the quality to succeed in the Premier League but suggested that transfers involve several considerations.

n

“He does. He scores goals. He scored goals in Italy and he’s scoring goals in Turkey as well,” Cole said.

n

“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.

n

“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.”

n

Osimhen began his European career with Wolfsburg before making his breakthrough during a loan spell at Belgian side Charleroi. He later joined Lille and then Napoli, where he helped the club win the Serie A title in the 2022/23 season.

n

The striker scored 31 goals that season and has continued to impress since moving to Galatasaray, where he has scored 65 goals in 78 appearances.

n

His performances have continued to attract interest from Premier League clubs, particularly Manchester United.

n

Former United defender Patrice Evra recently backed the club to sign Osimhen, describing him as the type of striker United need.

n

“I think Osimhen is the best. He’s a perfect example,” Evra told GOAL.

n

Former France international Louis Saha has also urged United to pursue the 27-year-old, highlighting his goalscoring record, Champions League experience and success with Napoli and Galatasaray.

n

Despite the recommendations from former United players, the club have not made a move for Osimhen and have instead signed Benjamin Sesko as their main out-and-out striker.

n

Osimhen remains under contract at Galatasaray, although Premier League interest could return in future transfer windows.

n n