Osimhen rejects Al-Hilal’s ₦44 billion annual deal, eyes European stay

Summary

• Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has rejected a lucrative ₦44 billion (€22 million) annual salary offer from Saudi club Al-Hilal, prioritizing a continued career in Europe.
• Osimhen, on loan from Napoli, scored 37 goals in 32 matches, leading Galatasaray to the Turkish League and Cup double in the 2024/25 season
• Despite interest from Premier League clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea, Osimhen’s high salary demands and Napoli’s €75 million release clause remain obstacles

Istanbul, Turkey – Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has turned down a staggering ₦44 billion (£22 million) tax-free annual deal from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, equivalent to £425,000 per week, according to reports from Sky Italy and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The 26-year-old, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, is focused on continuing his career in Europe, with negotiations for the Al-Hilal move collapsing due to disagreements over terms.

Osimhen’s remarkable 2024/25 season at Galatasaray, where he scored 37 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions, has solidified his status as a top striker, helping the club secure both the Turkish League and Turkish Cup.

Despite his success, Napoli’s reluctance to reintegrate him under new manager Antonio Conte and a €75 million release clause have fueled transfer speculation.

Galatasaray is keen to secure Osimhen permanently, offering a €15 million annual salary, though Napoli’s high release clause poses a challenge.

Premier League clubs Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City have shown interest, but Osimhen’s €12 million net salary demands and concerns about his character have cooled pursuits from English sides. Juventus also remains in the race, though their financial constraints may hinder a deal.

Earlier reports suggested Osimhen had considered or even agreed to a three-year, €120 million (₦215 billion) deal with Al-Hilal ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, but recent updates confirm he has prioritized staying in Europe, with Galatasaray fans urging him to remain.

This follows previous rejections of Al-Hilal offers, including a €140 million bid in 2023, which Osimhen declined to stay loyal to Napoli after their Serie A title win.

The ongoing saga highlights Osimhen’s determination to compete at Europe’s highest level, though his future remains uncertain as the transfer window progresses.