Napoli’s coach, Luciano Spalletti, has expressed optimism that Nigeria International Victor Osimhen will become a top player in the future.
This is coming after former Manchester United centre back, Rio Ferdinand, raised doubt over the striker’s ability to replicate his top form in the English Premier League.
The PUNCH reports that Osimhen has emerged as a prime target for United this summer following his impressive display for the Serie A champions this season and he heads the club’s striking shortlist.
Osimhen is enjoying one of the best moments of his career with Napoli this season as he currently tops the Italian Serie A scorers chart with 25 goals.
But having been linked to United, Ferdinand argued that there is a possibility that his (Osimhen’s) goal tally may not be replicated in the Premier League after 25 league goals in Italy.
“Osimhen is a different kettle of fish,” Ferdinand said on his Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE YouTube channel.
“He’s 24-years-old, scored goals in France and Italy. Won the league (in Italy) and knows how to win leagues.
“He’s been a number nine at a dominant team. Is that transferable to the Premier League? No-one knows that. That’s the chance United would have to take on him. That’s the only risk I see.
“He doesn’t know the league. Ability-wise and profile, he ticks every box, but there is an unknown factor. Can he adapt? I’d take either of those two and I’d be happy but Kane guarantees you 25 goals a season, there’s no doubt he would get that.”
But reacting to Ferdinand’s claim after Osimhen bagged a brace in his side’s 2-2 draw away to Bologna on Sunday, Spalletti, who is set to exit the club, said Osimhen can be a top player at any club.
“When players start working in a certain way, you identify their characteristics and find paths to give them service.
“Osimhen is good in open spaces, in the air, with the ball passed to his feet.
“He will have an important future, no matter what team he plays in, and is above all a good lad too. His teammates love him, he helps them out and resolves situations rather than complains. He will become even more of a top player in future,” Spalletti said.
