Why PSG’s Search for Kylian Mbappe’s Replacement Could Be a Big Blow for Manchester United

French World Cup-winning striker Kylian Mbappe is set to leave Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at the end of this season, according to media reports. A report published by BBC claimed that Mbappe has already informed PSG about his intention to leave the club this summer. Mbappe’s departure, needless to say, will be a big blow for PSG who have reportedly started finding the French superstar’s potential replacement. According to Athletic, Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is present on PSG’s transfer shortlist after Mbappe told the club about his next move. The article went on to suggest that the Nigeria international has appeared as a leading candidate to replace Mbappe at PSG. The French giants are understood to be weighing up a transfer approach this summer.

If PSG end up landing Victor Osimhen this summer it would certainly be a big blow for Manchester United. The Premier League side were, reportedly, interested in Osimhen since the summer pre-season tour when manager Erik ten Hag identified the Nigerian goalscorer as a viable option to strengthen the attacking unit.

Manchester United, ultimately, spent around £64 million ($82 million) along with another £8 million ($10 million) as add-ons to acquire the services of forward Rasmus Hojlund. The Danish footballer arrived at the Old Trafford from Atalanta on a five-year deal. Manchester United opted to shift their focus to Hojlund after deciding against moves for English striker Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen.

Meanwhile, having joined Napoli from Lille in 2020, Victor Osimhen has so far scored 67 goals in 119 appearances for the Italian outfit. Osimhen played a key role in guiding Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years the last season. The 25-year-old had netted 26 goals in 32 league appearances that season. In the ongoing Serie A campaign, Osimhen has till now recorded seven goals and two assists.

Victor Osimhen had scored 18 goals at French club Lille before signing for Napoli in a club-record fee of €70 million potentially rising to €80 million along with add-ons. Osimhen kicked off his professional career at German outfit Wolfsburg and spent the 2018-19 season on loan at Belgian club Charleroi. He eventually joined Lille on a permanent deal the next season.