Napoli’s star striker Victor Osimhen has rejected a high-profile move to Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
The Nigerian international, who spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Galatasaray, was a top target for Al-Hilal ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, with the Saudi club reportedly prepared to trigger his €75m release clause and offer a staggering €30m-per-season salary with bonuses.
Despite personal terms being agreed and a medical scheduled, Osimhen has opted against the move, leaving his future uncertain as the transfer window nears its June 10 deadline for Club World Cup registrations.
Sources suggest Osimhen’s preference for staying in a competitive European league, potentially with Galatasaray or a Premier League club like Chelsea, may have influenced his decision.
Galatasaray, where Osimhen scored an impressive 37 goals in 41 appearances, is reportedly pushing to secure him permanently, though their offer falls short of Napoli’s €75m valuation.
This development follows a rollercoaster of negotiations, with Al-Hilal’s new coach Simone Inzaghi personally contacting Osimhen to outline the club’s ambitious project.
However, the 26-year-old’s reluctance to join the Saudi Pro League echoes his previous rejection of Al-Hilal’s “crazy” offers in 2023, which he described as life-changing but ultimately not enough to sway him.
Chelsea, long-term admirers of Osimhen, remain in the race but face competition from Galatasaray and potentially other European clubs.
With Napoli eager to cash in and Osimhen back in Nigeria to finalize his decision, the next few days will be crucial in determining where the prolific striker lands.
