Osimhen open to wage cut for Manchester United move

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is reportedly willing to accept a weekly wage below £200,000 to secure a potential move to Manchester United, according to renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The revelation could pave the way for serious negotiations, easing fears that Osimhen’s salary demands might derail any transfer talks.

Romano, speaking to GIVEMESPORT, refuted circulating claims that the Napoli star is seeking a £300,000 weekly salary.

Instead, he clarified that Osimhen only wants a deal that mirrors his current earnings in Italy.

“He just wants his current salary — around €12 million net per season (£10.2 million) — to be respected, nothing more. Same as one year ago,” Romano confirmed.

This update comes as Manchester United continue evaluating their summer transfer targets. With the club’s wage bill under scrutiny amid INEOS-led restructuring, Osimhen’s modest wage expectation could strengthen his candidacy.

The club already pays several senior players over £200,000 per week — including Mason Mount (£250,000) and Casemiro — leading to speculation that adding another high earner might pose financial challenges.

However, Osimhen’s willingness to accept less could align with the club’s evolving financial strategy.

READ ALSO: Manchester United miss out on major transfer ‘windfall’ as Jadon Sancho and Antony embrace after Chelsea win

Osimhen, who recently enjoyed a prolific campaign — reportedly with 37 goals and 8 assists in 41 appearances for Galatasaray (although this claim may be erroneous as he plays for Napoli) — has become one of Europe’s most in-demand forwards.

His consistent form has attracted attention from top clubs and lucrative suitors.

The 25-year-old reportedly rejected a £30 million-per-year offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, further suggesting his desire to remain at the highest competitive level in Europe.

Reacting to Osimhen’s reported decision, club legend Rio Ferdinand said the move shows the striker’s clear commitment to elite-level football.

“Turning down that kind of money says a lot about the player’s ambitions,” Ferdinand said.

“He wants to compete, not just collect a cheque.”

Under the new INEOS ownership structure, Manchester United are believed to be reviewing their wage model to create a more sustainable and performance-driven framework.

This could involve capping wages and focusing on players motivated by sporting goals rather than financial windfalls.

In that light, Osimhen’s openness to lower wages — particularly given his stature and market value — could make him a more attractive prospect than previously thought.

The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as United finalizes its summer transfer strategy.

With Osimhen now viewed as a realistic and affordable target, negotiations may accelerate — especially if Napoli signals willingness to negotiate a transfer fee below the previously rumored €120 million release clause