Former Nigeria goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu has advised Victor Osimhen to carefully consider a potential move to Manchester United during the January transfer window.
Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has attracted interest from the Premier League club following an impressive start in Turkey, scoring 13 goals in 16 appearances across all competitions.
Shorunmu, who enjoyed a successful career in Turkey with clubs like Besiktas and Samsunspor, emphasized the importance of stability and regular playing time for Osimhen.
He noted that while a move to the Premier League could be enticing, it carries inherent risks, especially considering Osimhen’s recent adaptation to Turkish football.
“Everything in this life is about risk,” Shorunmu stated. “It is a matter of mindset if he is comfortable with the Man Utd project and his readiness to start a new life and adjust after just six months in Turkey.
Osimhen’s loan spell in Istanbul is set to conclude at the end of the season, with Napoli reportedly holding out for an €81 million transfer fee.
Shorunmu advised that any decision should consider the player’s current form and the potential challenges of adapting to a new league mid-season.
“It also depends on the new coach at Manchester United if the coach loves him so much and will support him in adapting to life in England,” he added.
The 26-year-old forward has become a fan favorite at Galatasaray, and Shorunmu believes that maintaining humility and focus will be key to his continued success, whether he stays in Turkey or moves elsewhere.
“He just needs to be humble, because that is the major secret to being more successful in Turkey,” Shorunmu concluded.
Reports have linked Osimhen with a January move to Manchester United, as the club seeks to bolster its attacking options. However, conflicting information has emerged regarding the likelihood of this transfer.
Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reported that Galatasaray is “100%” convinced Osimhen will not leave the club this winter, with no current negotiations taking place.
Additionally, La Repubblica reported that Osimhen declined a move to Manchester United in January, a decision that reportedly frustrated Napoli’s management.
Given these developments, Shorunmu’s cautionary advice enhances the complexities involved in such high-profile transfers.
Osimhen’s decision will likely weigh the benefits of immediate Premier League action against the value of continuity and growth in his current environment.
