Victor Osimhen could finally be on his way to the Saudi Pro League this summer, with Al-Hilal preparing a renewed push to sign the Nigerian striker following his loan spell at Galatasaray.
The 26-year-old, who is still under contract with Napoli until 2026, was unable to secure his preferred transfer last summer despite interest from PSG, Chelsea, and Al-Ahli.
Instead, he made a last-minute loan switch to Galatasaray, where he has impressed with 24 goals and 5 assists in 27 appearances.
This time around, Al-Hilal are ready to test Napoli’s resolve once again. The Riyadh-based club, backed by a substantial €600 million summer transfer budget, have reportedly shifted their focus to Osimhen after failing to land Mohamed Salah.
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Journalist Ben Jacobs reports that the Saudi giants view Osimhen as a marquee signing ahead of the Club World Cup later this year.
Previous interest from Chelsea collapsed over wage structure disagreements. The Premier League club was unwilling to meet Osimhen’s demand for a guaranteed £250,000 per week – a figure well beyond their incentive-driven salary model.
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Manchester United are also said to have cooled their interest due to the financial demands involved, including his €75 million release clause, agent fees, and personal terms.
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That leaves PSG and Saudi Arabia as Osimhen’s most likely options. While PSG haven’t formally revived their pursuit, they remain in the mix, especially given Osimhen’s strong relationship with former Napoli teammate Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Still, a Saudi switch appears to be the likeliest outcome. According to Jacobs, Osimhen was tempted by the Middle East last summer, and the financial package on offer from Al-Hilal is reportedly “too good to turn down.”
“Saudi may return, and it won’t obviously be Al-Ahli because they’ve already got Ivan Toney, but keep an eye on Al-Hilal ahead of the Club World Cup because Osimhen is on their radar,
Jacobs said on The Football Terrace. “Unless Osimhen changes his demands, a move outside the Premier League is looking like the most likely scenario.”
Al-Hilal are also reported to be eyeing Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, suggesting they are serious about building a team of global superstars ahead of next season.
