Manchester United have reportedly ended their long-standing pursuit of Victor Osimhen due to the combined cost of his transfer fee and salary.

The Nigerian international remains one of Europe’s most feared strikers, but despite his prolific form in Turkey, the Red Devils’ recruitment team have opted to pursue other targets this summer.

For years, the prospect of Osimhen leading the line at Old Trafford has been a recurring talking point among United supporters, with former players Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra publicly urging the club to make a move for the Nigerian.

However, that dream now appears to have come to an end. The 27-year-old has continued to dominate the Turkish Super Lig, but the cost of signing him, coupled with his substantial wages, which are boosted by favourable tax regulations in Turkey, has effectively priced him out of a move to the Premier League giants.

According to Manchester Evening News writer Tyrone Marshall, the “ship has sailed” on a potential move to United. The financial reality of paying a significant transfer fee, alongside meeting Osimhen’s salary demands, makes the deal unworkable.

Osimhen is valued at around €150m, while his annual salary is estimated at approximately €14m.

According to the report, United have now turned their attention to alternative striking options.

“With the Osimhen deal dead, United are focusing on a more balanced approach to their frontline. The club believes in Sesko’s potential but acknowledges the need for support.

“A five-man shortlist has been drawn up, ranging from Premier League-proven options like Jean-Philippe Mateta, who can provide experience and mentorship. The goal is to avoid panic buys and ensure the squad has the depth to compete in the Champions League.”

While the Osimhen door appears to have closed, another could be opening in Catalonia. Barcelona have reportedly identified Benjamin Sesko as a potential long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski.

Although Julian Alvarez remains the top priority for Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco, the difficulty of negotiating with Atletico Madrid has prompted the Catalan club to consider alternative targets, including the Slovenian international.

United, however, are not paying much attention to the speculation from Spain. The club reportedly view Sesko as their long-term No. 9 and have received no formal approach from Barcelona.

Marshall added, “United haven’t had any offer or expression of interest from Barcelona for Sesko and aren’t treating those links with much seriousness at the moment. There was a fair bit of frustration over the way Barca have gone about the Marcus Rashford deal, and United will be reluctant to do business with them for a while.”

For Osimhen, the striker now appears set to begin his third season with Galatasaray after impressing during his initial loan spell and continuing his fine form following his permanent move from Napoli.