Victor Osimhen Rejects €70 Million Move to Al Ahli, Eyes European Future

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has declined a €70 million offer from Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli, with his agent Roberto Calenda confirming that the Napoli star is determined to continue his career in European football. This decision comes amid growing transfer speculation, with several top clubs from Europe and the Middle East showing interest in the prolific forward.

Despite the lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League, Osimhen remains focused on playing in Europe, particularly in the English Premier League. Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on Monday that the 25-year-old and his agent rejected the Saudi move due to concerns over salary and release clause terms.

In a statement posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Calenda emphasized that Osimhen has no intention of leaving Europe at this stage. He highlighted the striker’s achievements, including being named African Footballer of the Year and finishing eighth in the Ballon d’Or, as reasons for his continued commitment to European football.

“Victor has unfinished business in Europe,” Calenda stated. “He made history with Napoli, and despite significant offers, we have always respected the club’s decisions.”

Osimhen’s situation at Napoli remains complex. Despite playing a crucial role in the club’s Serie A title-winning campaign two seasons ago, he has been training separately from the squad due to ongoing transfer discussions. His current contract, which includes a €130 million release clause, runs until June 2026, making negotiations with European suitors like Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain challenging.

While Al Ahli was reportedly close to reaching a €65 million agreement with Napoli, convincing Osimhen to make the move proved difficult. The Nigerian forward is keen on including a release clause in any new contract, allowing him a potential return to Europe and Champions League football in the future.

Chelsea remains interested in Osimhen but has yet to make an official offer, with the player’s wage demands—reportedly around £500,000 per week—posing a significant hurdle. Paris Saint-Germain, also in search of a top striker, had previously reached a preliminary agreement with Osimhen earlier this summer but has not pursued the deal further.

For now, Osimhen’s focus is on continuing his career in Europe, where he believes his best years are still ahead.