Cole Explains Why Premier League Clubs Have Not Signed Osimhen

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

Osimhen has been linked with several English clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea, in recent years, but none has completed a deal for the striker.

Speaking to GOAL, Cole acknowledged Osimhen’s goalscoring ability and said he believes the Nigerian could succeed in the Premier League, while stressing that several considerations can influence a transfer.

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

“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.

“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.”

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

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

His performances have continued to attract interest from Premier League clubs, with Manchester United among those frequently linked with him.

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

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

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

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

Osimhen remains under contract with Galatasaray, although interest from Premier League clubs could resurface in future transfer windows.