Nigerian star Victor Osimhen has rejected a massive €30 million-a-year offer from Al Hilal, with the striker making a firm statement about his ambition to stay in Europe. The move confirms that, for Osimhen, legacy outweighs riches.
Earlier reports claimed Osimhen had already agreed to terms with Al Hilal following their activation of his €75 million release clause, a figure Napoli previously refused when offered €70 million.
However, sources close to the player now suggest the Nigerian has rejected the deal outright, despite the lucrative package aimed at bringing him to Saudi Arabia ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup starting June 14.
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Football Italia and Sky Sports provided conflicting reports over the weekend, but journalist Alfredo Pedullà confirmed that Osimhen’s decision to turn down the massive salary is final. “The player has expressed a desire to continue playing in Europe,” Pedullà stated, hinting that a permanent deal with Galatasaray could still be on the table.
Galatasaray, where Osimhen netted an impressive 37 goals in 41 matches last season, are still in the race. However, the Turkish champions can only offer half of what Al Hilal proposed about €15 million annually. Turkish journalist Onur Dincer noted that the club is awaiting Osimhen’s final decision.
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Osimhen has been under contract with Napoli since 2020 after his record €70 million move from Lille. He has scored 65 goals in 108 Serie A games and helped Napoli to a historic Serie A title in the 2022–23 season. Despite interest from top clubs including Chelsea and Al-Ahli last summer, his permanent move has remained elusive.
