Victor Osimhen Closing In on Al Hilal Move: Nigerian Striker Nears Saudi Switch Amid Mega Offer

Nigerian football star and Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, is reportedly close to completing a blockbuster move to Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal. This comes as the 25-year-old is said to be “closing in on a personal agreement” with the Middle Eastern club, according to a recent report by Sky Sports.

Osimhen, who is currently playing for Galatasaray on loan from Italian Serie A side Napoli, has seen his name linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs over the past two seasons. However, instead of making a high-profile move to the English Premier League, the Lagos-born striker appears to be on the verge of signing a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia—a country rapidly becoming a hub for footballing superstars.

Osimhen’s Journey: From Napoli to Galatasaray

Victor Osimhen joined Napoli in 2020 from French side Lille and quickly rose to stardom, helping Napoli win their first Serie A title in over three decades during the 2022/2023 season. His performances in Italy made him one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.

In a surprising twist, however, Osimhen made a move to Galatasaray on loan, where he continued his sensational form. The Nigerian international played a crucial role in helping the Turkish giants win the 2023/2024 Turkish Super Lig, scoring 25 goals and providing five assists in just 29 appearances. This incredible output not only cemented his reputation as a world-class striker but also increased his market value significantly.

Release Clause and Contract Situation

Osimhen is still officially a Napoli player, and his contract with the Italian club is set to expire in 2026. However, there is a £63 million release clause in his deal that can be activated by non-Italian clubs. This clause has made it possible for foreign clubs—particularly those from the Premier League, Ligue 1, and now Saudi Arabia—to make serious offers for his services.

Despite interest from Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal, it seems Osimhen is ready to take a different path—one that could redefine his career and financial future.

Saudi Move on the Horizon

According to Sky Sports, Al Hilal are currently in advanced negotiations with Osimhen, and a three-year contract is already on the table. If the deal goes through, the Nigerian forward could earn close to £15 million per season, making him one of the highest-paid African footballers in the world.

“Osimhen is closing in on a personal agreement with Al Hilal,” Sky Sports reported, signaling that the discussions between player representatives and the Saudi club are nearing completion.

While the deal is not yet finalized, sources close to the negotiation reveal that Al Hilal are very confident that they will secure the striker’s signature. However, the move is currently awaiting final approval from the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Sports, which is responsible for releasing the funds needed for such major signings.

Ministry of Sports Yet to Approve Funds

Saudi Arabia’s government plays a key role in the financial operations of its top football clubs. Large-scale transfers, especially involving foreign stars, often require the approval of the Ministry of Sports before funds can be disbursed.

At the moment, Al Hilal is still waiting for the green light from the ministry. But the club’s management remains calm and optimistic. Reports say that the club president has already received a verbal confirmation from Osimhen himself, expressing his desire to join the club once all logistics are sorted.

“Osimhen’s move will not be finalised until the club receives the necessary funds from the Saudi government to sign their man,” the Sky Sports report added.

Why Saudi Arabia?

The Saudi Pro League has attracted an increasing number of elite players over the past two years. Football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr), Karim Benzema (Al Ittihad), Neymar Jr. (Al Hilal), and Sadio Mane (Al Nassr) have all moved to the Gulf nation, bringing with them a wave of global attention and investment.

Saudi Arabia’s strategy is clear: transform the Saudi Pro League into one of the most competitive and marketable leagues in the world by attracting top talent from Europe and South America.

For Osimhen, the move is not just about money. It’s about being part of a growing football project with global ambitions. While Premier League football is highly competitive and prestigious, the Saudi league offers a different kind of opportunity—financial security, continental exposure, and a new lifestyle.

What This Means for Nigeria and the Super Eagles

Victor Osimhen is not just a club footballer—he’s one of the most important figures in Nigerian football today. As a striker for the Super Eagles, he has been instrumental in recent national team campaigns, and his leadership on and off the pitch continues to inspire millions of Nigerian youth.

While some fans may express disappointment that he's not heading to a Premier League giant, others will see this move as a chance for the striker to secure his financial future while still maintaining his elite status.

If the deal goes through, Osimhen will join the likes of Odion Ighalo, who also played in Saudi Arabia and enjoyed great success there. The move may also influence other top African players to consider the Gulf region as a viable career destination.

Final Thoughts

As of now, the world awaits the final confirmation of Victor Osimhen’s move to Al Hilal. If the deal is completed, it would not only be one of the biggest African transfers of 2025 but also another major milestone in Saudi Arabia’s football evolution.

With a staggering £15 million per season offer on the table, a successful season in Turkey, and support from both club and country, Osimhen’s next chapter could be the most exciting yet. Whether fans agree with the move or not, one thing is clear: Victor Osimhen remains one of Nigeria’s brightest footballing stars, and his journey is far from over.

Stay tuned to NaijaRush.com for more updates on this developing story and all the latest news about Nigerian footballers making waves globally.