Victor Osimhen status Manchester United must factor into any transfer move for Napoli forward

Manchester United must be prepared to be without Victor Osimhen for four weeks of the 2023-24 Premier League season should the Reds succeed with any move for the striker.

Erik ten Hag has targeted the Nigeria international as a potential summer signing as they seek to add a centre forward to their ranks. Tottenham’s Harry Kane is the top target but the Reds are seeking alternative options amid an expectation the England captain might be unobtainable given Spurs chairman Daniel Levy’s desire to keep him in the capital.

The likes of Rasmus Hojlund at Atalanta, Frankfurt's Randal Kolo Muani and Mohammed Kudus at Ajax are alternatives United are exploring but Osimhen features prominently even if he will command a healthy fee. Osimhen's current club chairman seemingly opened the door for a possible exit for the 24-year-old this week with a host of top European clubs likely to be keen on his signature.

ALSO READ: United get mixed messages from Napoli over Osimhen transfer

United’s need for striker recruits is clear but Osimhen would be absent for a chunk of the new campaign through Africa Cup of Nations duty. He’s already helped the Super Eagles to qualify for next year’s tournament betting seven goals in five games which has seen Nigeria book their spot in the Ivory Coast with a game to spare.

They will be among the favourites to lift the crown and should they reach the final, Osimhen could be absent for five United matches.

The competition was initially slated to be played in the summer months but was moved due to the continents heat and now starts on January 13 with the showpiece on February 11. United play four Premier League games in that period and could also have an FA Cup fourth round fixture.