Real Madrid 'eyeing big-money move for Victor Osimhen'

Real Madrid have reportedly identified Napoli forward Victor Osimhen as a potential incoming during next summer's transfer window.

The 23-year-old's future was the subject of much speculation over the summer, with both Arsenal and Manchester United believed to be interested in his signature.

Osimhen ultimately remained in Naples, and he has again been in strong form during the 2022-23 campaign, contributing nine goals and three assists in 13 appearances in all competitions.

The Nigeria international has a contract with Napoli until June 2025, and there have been claims that he is valued by the Italian giants in the region of £90m.

Man United are still thought to retain an interest in the Nigeria international, who has a record of 37 goals and 12 assists in 75 games for the Blues since his arrival from Lille in September 2020.

© Reuters

However, according to Sport, Real Madrid are also in the hunt for his signature, with the Spanish and European champions looking to bring in another forward next summer.

Karim Benzema is expected to soon sign an extension with the club until June 2024, but the France international has struggled with a number of injury problems this season.

The 34-year-old has only managed six goals thus far in 2022-23, and he failed to find the back of the net in the group stage of the Champions League.

The report claims that a move for Osimhen is likely to be related to the future of Eden Hazard, as the club will need to shift his big wage packet before bringing in another high-profile forward.

© Reuters

Rodrygo has been used through the middle in Benzema's absence this season, but head coach Carlo Ancelotti has lifted options in that area of the field, with Mariano Diaz also set to move on next summer.

Osimhen missed four league games earlier this season due to a muscular problem, but he has still managed to score eight times in Serie A during the 2022-23 campaign.

The Nigerian also netted once in three outings in the group stage of the Champions League, with Napoli advancing to the next round of the competition as section winners.

Gil Azzurri have only won the Serie A title on two occasions, the last being back in 1990, but they are currently top of the table, eight points clear of second-placed AC Milan, following Tuesday's 2-0 win over Empoli.