Paris, France – Nigerian international and Napoli star striker, Victor Osimhen, has reportedly agreed to a sensational move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, just hours after initially rejecting the club’s opening offer.
According to renowned transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Osimhen, 26, has now accepted a staggering four-year deal worth €30 million annually, amounting to an estimated €195 million before taxes and performance-based bonuses a package that places him firmly among the world’s highest-paid footballers.
This dramatic U-turn comes despite persistent interest from Premier League giants Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United, as well as a revived attempt by Turkish champions Galatasaray, who were keen to reunite with Osimhen following his previous loan success in Istanbul. However, the Saudi Pro League’s financial firepower has ultimately proven decisive.
Record-Shattering Deal Leaves Rivals in the Dust
Turkish media outlet Milliyet described the deal as “astonishing,” noting that Osimhen’s personal valuation now eclipses the total squad market value of nearly every Turkish club save for Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Beşiktaş.
Galatasaray, despite their enthusiasm, were quickly outpaced financially. Al-Hilal’s revised offer reportedly closed the gap that previously stalled negotiations, especially after Osimhen had earlier demanded a €40 million per year salary terms the Saudis initially declined.
Now, multiple sources including Sky Sports confirm that a compromise has been reached, with Osimhen accepting the new €30 million figure. Although slightly less than his original ask, the contract still ensures his place among the global elite in earnings.
Napoli-Al Hilal Deal Close, but Not Finalized
While personal terms are believed to be settled, final agreement between Napoli and Al-Hilal on the transfer fee is yet to be completed. Negotiations are ongoing, with both clubs reportedly about €5 million apart in their valuations of the prolific forward.
Despite this, insiders from both camps remain optimistic that a deal will be finalized imminently, possibly before the weekend.
Medical Booked in Paris
In anticipation of an official announcement, Osimhen is expected to arrive in Paris for a comprehensive medical examination arranged by Al-Hilal.
Journalist Ben Jacobs confirmed via X (formerly Twitter):
“Al-Hilal have booked a medical for Victor Osimhen and are hoping to finalise a deal with Napoli this weekend. Caution remains after 24 hours of twists, but Osimhen is Al-Hilal’s top priority before the Club World Cup. They want the Nigerian striker in Paris today to sign.”
The move comes at the end of a transfer saga filled with speculation, intense negotiations, and shifting dynamics across top European clubs. For Osimhen, who played a pivotal role in Napoli’s Serie A success, this marks a significant new chapter in his career.
A New Era in Saudi Football
Once finalized, the deal would make Osimhen one of the most high-profile African players ever to join the Saudi Pro League, joining the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mané in a growing wave of elite talent transitioning to the Middle East.
For Al-Hilal, it would be a major statement of intent ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, as the Riyadh-based club looks to consolidate its reputation on the global stage.
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