Former France defender, William Gallas, has surprisingly described Manchester United as an ideal destination for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, and not his former London club Arsenal, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, Osimhen, who has become one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe, has been consistently linked with a move to the English topflight since last summer.

The striker is expected to leave Napoli for good ahead of the next summer transfer window but speculations are still rife about his next destination.

According to Italian outlet Tuttosport, United are understood to have reached a provisional agreement with Osimhen’s camp, signalling their intent to activate his €75m release clause just as Serie A giants, Juventus are also said to be interested.

Chelsea are also in the mix while Arsenal are also expected to shop for a striker in the summer.

Speaking in an interview with Prime Casino, Gallas shared his thoughts on Osimhen’s potential adaptation to English football, emphasising how United would provide a more patient platform for the Nigerian striker’s development.

“We’ve seen foreign players before, it’s often difficult for them in the first season,” the former Arsenal and Chelsea defender said.

“The second season they step up, so it’s not unusual at all. Even (Cristiano) Ronaldo, in his first season, wasn’t the Ronaldo we know now, but in the second season there were signs.

“It all depends on which club. If Arsenal need results straight away, they need to win the Premier League next year, then they need one player who can do it straight away. They don’t have time. If we talk about Manchester United, from where they are now, they don’t need to win the league. They’re looking to be top four or top five, so maybe they can give Osimhen the time he needs.”

However, reports emerging elsewhere suggest the path may not be straightforward for United. Despite preliminary talks, it’s claimed that the club has backed away from the deal due to Osimhen’s reported wage demands of £300,000 per week, figures United are said to be unwilling to match under their new wage structure.

Osimhen is the leading scorer in the Turkish Super Lig with 22 goals, putting Galatasaray on the cusp of another title as well as a cup triumph with 321 goals and eight assists in 36 games across all competitions.