Manchester United in Talks to Swap Cristiano Ronaldo for Napoli’s €100m Star Victor Osimhen

The Cristiano Ronaldo transfer saga continues, and this time, it might involve a high-stakes swap deal with Napoli.

Manchester United is reportedly on the verge of loaning out its legendary striker, Cristiano Ronaldo, with Nigerian sensation Victor Osimhen potentially heading to Old Trafford in return.

But is this ambitious deal realistic, or just another desperate attempt to resolve a standoff that’s dragged on through the entire summer?

Jorge Mendes Pushing for a Ronaldo Exit | Napoli Emerges as a Key Option

Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is working around the clock to secure a move that satisfies two things:

Ronaldo’s desire to play Champions League football this season, and
United needs a powerful and consistent forward in return.

Napoli fits the bill; they’re in the Champions League and have a striker admired by Manchester United’s scouting team: Victor Osimhen.

Mendes reportedly proposed a swap — Ronaldo on loan to Napoli and Osimhen heading to United for a fee close to €100 million (£84.5 million).

However, Napoli, firm on their valuation, has refused to reduce their asking price even with Ronaldo included in the deal.

Can United Afford Victor Osimhen?

Napoli’s €100m price tag for Osimhen creates a financial puzzle for United, especially with their ongoing pursuit of Antony from Ajax, which is already set to cost a fortune.

Still, offloading Ronaldo’s wages, even partially, would give United some breathing room.

Yet, it’s unclear how much of that saved wage bill would be reinvested into the Osimhen deal.

Sky Sports News confirms that Osimhen remains a top target on United’s striker shortlist. But the move is still logistically complex unless a creative financial solution surfaces.

What Makes Osimhen Worth the Fuss?

Since joining Napoli from Lille in 2020, Victor Osimhen has blossomed into one of Europe’s most promising young forwards.

He’s bagged double-digit goals in back-to-back Serie A seasons and even clinched the league’s Best Young Player award last term.

For Erik ten Hag, who’s been vocal about needing more firepower upfront, Osimhen offers pace, strength, and finishing — the kind of attributes United have sorely lacked in recent seasons.

Ronaldo’s Champions League Quest | A Final Push?

This move would see Ronaldo return to Europe’s top competition, avoiding his first Champions League absence in two decades.

With Napoli playing in the Champions League, this would keep CR7’s elite legacy intact, at least in terms of competition participation.

According to reports from Tuttosport, talks between Mendes and Napoli are active again.

The idea: Ronaldo joins Napoli on loan, with United possibly covering a portion of his wages.

Meanwhile, Osimhen would transfer to United permanently.

Milan Option Declined | Is Time Running Out?

Mendes also tried to involve AC Milan, suggesting a potential deal involving winger Rafael Leão, but the Rossoneri refused outright, citing their intention to keep the Portuguese star.

Now, with the transfer window closing soon, the pressure is on all parties. Ronaldo wants out, United wants balance, and Napoli wants value. The outcome could be one of the most fascinating last-minute deals in recent football history.

Smart Deal or Risky Gamble?

From a sporting perspective, Osimhen would be a massive upgrade in long-term planning, giving United a young, hungry striker with high resale value.

But from a brand and legacy standpoint, letting go of Cristiano Ronaldo — even temporarily — comes with risks.

Will Man U finally find balance by trading their icon for potential?

Or will the standoff drag on, leaving both Ronaldo and the club stuck in limbo?