Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has turned down a €70m move to Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli, with his agent Roberto Calenda stating that the Napoli star still has unfinished business in European football.
This comes amid growing transfer speculation, with top European and Middle Eastern clubs vying for Osimhen’s signature. Despite several Saudi Pro League clubs willing to offer astronomical sums, the Nigerian international remains focused on continuing his career in Europe, ideally in the English Premier League.
Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Osimhen and his agent rejected the Saudi offer on Monday, citing concerns over salary and release clauses. Currently training separately from the Napoli squad, Osimhen could still move before the transfer window closes.
Calenda confirmed the decision via social media, emphasising that Osimhen is committed to his current European career. “Osimhen is a Napoli player with a renewed contract, and while there have been major offers, we have always supported the club’s decisions,” Calenda wrote.
He further stated that Osimhen has unfinished business in Europe, noting his achievements and aspirations. “Victor was named African Footballer of the Year and placed eighth in the Ballon d’Or. He has more to accomplish in Europe, and respect and balance are necessary,” Calenda added.
Despite being pivotal in Napoli’s Serie A title win two seasons ago, Osimhen’s relationship with the club is strained, with manager Antonio Conte sidelining him due to ongoing transfer discussions. His current contract, which includes a €130m release clause, runs until June 2026, complicating negotiations with interested European clubs like Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
Al Ahli had reportedly come close to a €65m agreement with Napoli, but faced difficulties in persuading Osimhen to join. The striker’s insistence on a release clause for potential future moves to Europe and Champions League football also proved a sticking point.
Chelsea remains interested but has not made an official offer, with Osimhen’s wage demands—reportedly £500,000-a-week—posing a challenge. Paris Saint-Germain, in need of a top striker due to Gonçalo Ramos’s injury, had previously reached a preliminary agreement with Osimhen but has yet to follow through.
Despite the offers, Osimhen is focused on his European ambitions and believes his best years are still ahead of him.
