Darron Gibson, a former Manchester United midfielder, has voiced his concerns regarding the club’s potential pursuit of Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap. Gibson argues that Delap doesn’t represent a significant improvement over the existing young strikers at Old Trafford, namely Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund. He believes that instead of investing in another young prospect, Manchester United should prioritize acquiring a seasoned, established striker like Victor Osimhen. Gibson’s rationale is that a proven goalscorer like Osimhen would not only bolster the team’s attacking prowess but also serve as a mentor and guide for the younger, less experienced forwards, helping them navigate the immense pressure that comes with playing for a club of Manchester United’s stature.
Gibson highlights the challenging environment young strikers face at Manchester United, especially in the absence of a veteran figure to learn from. He contends that if the club had secured a player like Harry Kane a couple of seasons ago, both Hojlund and Zirkzee would have benefited significantly from his experience and guidance. He emphasizes the importance of having a seasoned striker to alleviate the pressure on young players and provide them with a valuable learning opportunity. According to Gibson, Delap, while a promising talent, lacks the experience and proven track record to make a substantial impact at Old Trafford, particularly given the intense scrutiny and expectations associated with the club.
Gibson’s preferred target, Victor Osimhen, however, seems increasingly likely to join Saudi Arabian champions Al-Hilal, despite fervent appeals from Galatasaray fans. Reports suggest that Osimhen is on the verge of signing a lucrative three-year contract worth approximately £15 million per season with the Saudi club. This potential move underscores the growing financial power of the Saudi Pro League, which has been attracting top football talent from around the world with its lucrative offers.
Galatasaray supporters, deeply impressed by Osimhen’s performance during his loan spell, have launched impassioned campaigns to persuade him to stay. Their efforts include a heartfelt plea displayed on a Times Square billboard in New York City as part of a #staywithus campaign. Despite these emotional appeals, Osimhen appears set to join Al-Hilal, highlighting the allure of the financial rewards offered by the Saudi league.
Reports indicate that Osimhen is in advanced negotiations with Al-Hilal’s president, Fahad bin Nafel, and has verbally agreed to personal terms on a contract offering an annual salary of up to €17.5 million, including bonuses. This substantial financial package appears to have swayed Osimhen’s decision, despite the emotional connection he developed with Galatasaray fans during his impressive loan spell.
The final hurdle for the transfer is approval from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sports. A specialized ‘financial viability’ committee needs to give the green light to release the necessary government funds to complete the transaction. Once this approval is granted, the transfer is expected to be finalized, officially marking Osimhen’s move to the Saudi Pro League, a move that further solidifies the league’s growing influence in the global football landscape. This development also highlights the challenges European clubs face in competing with the financial might of Saudi Arabian teams.
