Manchester United remain one of the leading contenders to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen next summer, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

The Sky Sport Italia journalist believes that the Nigerian international is likely to be the subject of a fierce transfer battle at the end of the season:

“Victor Osimhen is a name to be taken into great consideration in view of the summer transfer market. I think he’s the summer goal of many top clubs, especially in the Premier League: he’s very expensive, Napoli don’t want to sell him at the moment. But today I think it’s difficult to find players in Europe with Osimhen’s power, physicality and speed. Manchester United and the important Premier League players like them, among others, they will try to take Osimhen from Napoli next summer.”

It had been suggested that Erik ten Hag’s side’s interest in Osimhen has cooled somewhat but, Di Marzio, who has very strong contacts in Italy, contradicts those reports.

The main stumbling block for recruiting the 24-year-old will be his sky-high price tag, with it being claimed that Napoli may ask for as much as €140m (£124m).

With Chelsea, Arsenal and other high profile European clubs having also been linked with Osimhen, United’s chances of securing the forward’s signature likely depend on two factors.

Finishing in the Champions League places is essential so they can afford the transfer in terms of Financial Fair Play, while a takeover of the club may also be required to finance a club record deal.