Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal are edging closer to completing the high-profile signing of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, after reportedly upping their bid to €75m to match Napoli’s valuation
Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri has revealed that an agreement on personal terms between Osimhen and Al-Hilal is already in place.
Tavolieri reports that Osimhen has accepted a three-year contract offer from the Saudi club, under which he is expected to earn a staggering £25.9m annually.
That brings the total earnings to £77.6m over the duration of the deal with Simone Inzaghi’s team.
Prior to the latest development, Al-Hilal had been €5m short of meeting Napoli’s release clause for the player.
However, they have now agreed to pay the full fee and are waiting for the Italian side to finalize the medical, which they are eager to conduct promptly.
The transfer saga between Osimhen and Al-Hilal dates back to last summer, when a deal was close but ultimately fell through.
With the FIFA Club World Cup fast approaching, Al-Hilal are keen to wrap up the move before the mini-transfer window shuts on June 10, ensuring Osimhen’s eligibility for the competition.
There is also speculation that Al-Hilal might consider offloading Aleksandar Mitrovic, formerly of Fulham, either permanently or on loan, as they prepare to accommodate Osimhen in the squad. This was highlighted in a recent report by talkSPORT.
Although Osimhen is contracted with Napoli until 2026, tensions with the club’s hierarchy last year led to his temporary exit.
The 26-year-old spent the previous season on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he had an outstanding campaign, netting 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 appearances across all competitions, helping them secure both the league and cup titles.
Meanwhile, Premier League clubs have also shown interest in the prolific striker, with Manchester United and Chelsea previously linked to a possible move.
But with his transfer to Al-Hilal appearing imminent, Mail Sport reports that United are now shifting their focus to Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo.
