Napoli's prolific striker, Victor Osimhen, is on the verge of leaving Europe after a turbulent summer, according to reports from Italy.
Despite strong interest from top European clubs like PSG, Chelsea, and Arsenal during the transfer window, it appears that Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al Ahli has emerged as the frontrunner to secure Osimhen’s signature.
Renowned Sky Sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio reports that Osimhen has agreed to a move to Al Ahli, with negotiations now in the final stages.
Sources suggest that all parties are finalizing a four-year contract for the Nigerian forward, which will see him earn a staggering €160 million (approximately 282.2 billion naira) over the duration of the deal, translating to around €40 million per year. Al Ahli is set to pay Napoli €80 million plus additional bonuses, with a release clause to be included in the agreement.
Further validating these reports, transfer expert Nicolò Schira disclosed that the 25-year-old is far from reaching an agreement with Chelsea. The London club’s offer of a loan with an obligation to buy has failed to appeal to both Napoli and Osimhen, despite the player reportedly agreeing to personal terms with Chelsea.
Osimhen has long expressed a desire to play in the English Premier League, with Chelsea legends John Obi Mikel and Didier Drogba having encouraged him to join the Blues on various occasions.
However, the former Lille star now looks set to continue his career in the Saudi Arabian Pro League, following in the footsteps of his compatriot and friend, Odion Ighalo, who has enjoyed success there in recent years.
In anticipation of Osimhen's departure, Napoli has already secured a deal for Chelsea’s Romelu Lukaku, who will step in to replace Osimhen and reunite with manager Antonio Conte.