Evra names Osimhen as United's top transfer priority as Leao hints at Milan exit

Patrice Evra has urged Manchester United to pursue Victor Osimhen above all other transfer targets this summer, calling the Galatasaray striker the player most capable of transforming Michael Carrick’s attack. The endorsement comes as AC Milan forward Rafael Leao has reportedly given a positive signal regarding a potential move to Old Trafford, adding momentum to United’s summer recruitment plans.

Evra, speaking to Goal, was unequivocal in his assessment. “Osimhen. I have all due respect for Galatasaray, the love he gets there and what the player is like,” the former United left-back said. “Man United need a proper striker. Back in the day, we had four amazing strikers, and if you want to play every competition, you need more strikers. To name one player, I say Osimhen because I know these guys can make the difference.”

Galatasaray signed the Nigerian international on a permanent deal last summer for a Turkish-record fee of approximately £65m following his loan spell from Napoli. The Turkish club are understood to have placed a £130m price tag on the 26-year-old, who also commands a reported salary of £250,000 per week — figures that represent a significant financial commitment even by United’s standards.

Evra’s call for reinforcements is grounded in what unfolded during the second half of last season. When Benjamin Sesko sustained an injury in late 2025, United were left exposed in attack, with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo both deployed as makeshift centre-forwards without convincing results. Sesko showed clear improvement across his debut campaign at Old Trafford, but Evra believes the squad still lacks the depth required to compete across all competitions.

Beyond the striker position, Evra also pointed to other areas requiring attention. He noted that Casemiro’s impending departure leaves a gap in midfield, and flagged the need for defensive cover, particularly at left-back, to guard against injury.

With the transfer window set to open next month and United’s pre-season programme beginning in approximately seven weeks, Carrick’s backroom staff face a tight timeline to bring in new faces and allow them to integrate before the squad reassembles in July. The manager has shown no signs of complacency following a positive first six months in charge at Old Trafford, and further additions are widely expected before the new season begins.