Victor Osimhen, the 26-year-old Nigerian striker currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, is reportedly in discussions with Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal for a potential summer transfer. With his loan spell set to end in June 2025, Osimhen is expected to leave Napoli permanently, driven by a strained relationship with the Serie A club’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis. His contract includes a €75m release clause, activatable this summer, though Serie A clubs like Juventus, also keen on the striker, would need to pay a premium due to the clause’s restrictions.
French outlet Footmercato reports that Al-Hilal have initiated contact with Osimhen’s representatives, eyeing him as a marquee signing to bolster their attack following Neymar’s departure in January 2025. Osimhen’s prolific form at Galatasaray, where he scored 31 goals in 36 matches across the Turkish Super Lig, UEFA Europa League, and Turkish Cup, has reaffirmed his status as one of Europe’s top strikers. His 2022-23 Serie A campaign, with 26 goals, helped Napoli end a 33-year title drought, making him a prime target for Al-Hilal, who aim to compete in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.
Despite interest from European giants like Manchester United, Chelsea, and Juventus, Al-Hilal’s financial muscle, demonstrated by past offers exceeding €140m, positions them as strong contenders. Osimhen previously rejected a €200m deal from Al-Hilal in 2023, prioritizing European football, but recent reports suggest he’s now open to the move. The Saudi club’s pursuit aligns with their strategy to attract global stars, having previously targeted Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi. Osimhen’s potential reunion with former Napoli teammate Kalidou Koulibaly at Al-Hilal adds intrigue. As negotiations progress, Osimhen’s decision will hinge on balancing career ambitions with the lucrative prospects of the Saudi Pro League, shaping his next chapter after a transformative season in Turkey.
Leave a comment