Nicky Butt has backed Victor Osimhen as the ideal striker for Manchester United, urging the club to prioritise proven quality over long-term potential ahead of the summer transfer window.
With United continuing their search for a reliable forward, the former midfielder offered a clear assessment of the club’s needs, pointing to Osimhen’s current form as a decisive factor.
The Nigerian international has been in strong scoring form during his loan spell at Galatasaray, registering 19 goals and seven assists in 29 appearances across all competitions this season.
Speaking to Paddy Power, Butt expressed concerns about the club’s existing attacking options and the broader direction of its recruitment strategy.
While he acknowledged the potential of Benjamin Šeško, he questioned whether the young forward is ready to lead the line for a club with United’s ambitions.
“I don’t think we need to replace Benjamin Sesko, but we would need someone better than him who could also push him to excel ,” Butt explains.
“ I think Victor Osimhen would be the right choice… he’s powerful and fast, he knows how to make runs in behind, he has a good touch, he can score in all sorts of ways, and he’s excellent in the air. ”
Butt suggested the issue extends beyond a single position, arguing that United have relied too heavily on signing players based on potential rather than immediate impact.
“ It’s a difficult job to recruit the right players and sometimes you have to bet on potential, but United keep doing that and it’s not really working, ” Butt observes. “ Sesko might be ready in two or three years, but not now, and certainly not for the Champions League. ”
He also dismissed concerns about Osimhen’s lack of experience in the Premier League, highlighting the striker’s physical attributes and playing style as well suited to English football.
” I know Osimhen has not yet proven himself in the Premier League, but when you look at his physical qualities and his way of playing, he can clearly establish himself, ” he adds.
As the transfer window approaches, Butt’s comments add to the growing debate over United’s recruitment strategy.
His view reflects a call for the club to focus on established performers capable of delivering immediate results, rather than continuing to invest in players who may take time to develop.
Vinicius back in training as Jose Mourinho begins shaping Real Madrid squad Aug 4, 2026
