Nigerian forward and Napoli stand firm as Al Hilal’s €70m bid rejectedVictor Osimhen and Napoli have decisively turned down a €70 million bid from Al Hilal, a club in the Saudi Pro League, as reported by Soccernet.
According to Sky Sport Italia via Calcio Napoli, the Saudi club made an official proposal of €65 million along with €5 million in add-ons to entice the Nigerian forward to Riyadh.
However, Napoli swiftly rejected the offer, insisting on the full €75 million specified in the player’s release clause. Reports indicate that the response was not solely from the club.
Osimhen himself is said to have declined Al Hilal’s personal terms, which included an impressive €26 million salary per season. Sources close to the player indicate that despite the substantial financial incentives, the 26-year-old striker is not inclined to relocate to Saudi Arabia at this point in his career.
Al Hilal, under the management of newly appointed Simone Inzaghi, continues to pursue Osimhen and is reportedly preparing for a more attractive offer.
Also see: Spain Beat France in a Nine-Goal Thriller
The club considers the Nigerian international a key signing. Especially following his outstanding loan period at Galatasaray, where he scored 37 goals and provided eight assists in just 41 matches, aiding the Turkish team in achieving a domestic double.
Despite considerable interest from both Al Hilal and Galatasaray, who are allegedly willing to offer him up to €15 million annually for a permanent stay, Osimhen’s future remains ambiguous.
The performances of the Nigerian international have attracted attention from numerous top European clubs, with Napoli eager to ensure that any sale aligns with their financial expectations.
Osimhen, recognised as one of Africa’s most valuable footballers, has yet to make a decision regarding his next move. What is evident, however, is that both he and Napoli are unwilling to consider discounted offers, irrespective of the big money presented by the Middle East.
For the time being, the message from Naples is clear: Osimhen is not for sale — unless the complete clause is fulfilled and the striker consents.
