David Ornstein rules out two Manchester United summer signings but confirms one star on their radar
The latest Man Utd transfer news ahead of the summer window with updates on three potential deals.
Manchester United are reportedly unlikely to succeed in a bid to sign Napoli star Victor Osimhen in the summer transfer window. United have prioritised the addition of a striker at the end of the season, with Osimhen one of the names linked with a move to Old Trafford.
The 26-year-old has shone on loan at Galatasaray this season, with 28 goals in 32 appearances for the Turkish club. Napoli are expected to seek a permanent sale for the striker in the coming months, but it now seems unlikely he will move to Old Trafford.
A report from transfer expert David Ornstein claims Premier League clubs are already aware that the forward's future is likely to lie elsewhere, as Napoli look to sell him to the highest bidder. It means United could have one fewer option to choose from this summer, though there is one player who is currently on their radar.
Two moves ruled out, one on the cards
David Ornstein took part in a Q&A session for The Athletic on Thursday, that saw him quizzed on the future of several players ahead of the summer transfer window. Manchester United were one of the clubs central to those questions, as the transfer expert ruled out moves for Victor Osimhen and a sensational reunion with Paul Pogba.
“There seems to be a consensus among Premier League clubs that Victor Osimhen’s most likely destination is Saudi Arabia," Ornstein said in a blow to United's pursuit of a new striker.
Another player on the agenda was Pogba. The Frenchman is free to play professional football once again after his 18-month ban officially came to an end last month. The 31-year-old was initially given a four-year suspension last February after testing positive for the banned substance DHEA, but the punishment was reduced after a successful appeal.
The United academy graduate has always pleaded his innocence in the case and is was free to return to professional football from 11 March 2025. Pogba has not played since his final appearance for Juventus on 3 September 2023 and was later released by the Serie A club.
When quizzed on the possibility of United offering Pogba a route back into professional football following the ban, the journalist shot down any hope of a deal. "PogBackAgain is not on either party's agenda. He continues to train ahead of joining a club this summer. Plenty of interest but not aware of a firm decision being taken yet. I'll make some checks!"
It wasn't all doom and gloom for United fans though, as Ornstein confirmed Ruben Amorim's side as one of those interested in a summer move for Ipswich Town star Liam Delap. The 22-year-old has a release clause in his current deal and could be made available for transfer if his side are relegated from the Premier League. Ornstein added: "Not aware of any stipulation on who can trigger the clause, Louis, and MCFC is a buy-back option. I expect him to move, with CFC and MUFC among his many suitors."