Victor Osimhen has rejected a lucrative contract offer from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, despite an agreement between the club and Napoli to activate his €75 million release clause. The Saudi side had hoped to secure the Super Eagles striker ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Osimhen declined the proposal, stating: “BREAKING: Victor Osimhen has rejected Al Hilal proposal. Despite agreement club to club with Napoli for €75m fee, Osimhen says no to the Saudi Pro League club.”
The 26 year old, who spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Turkish champions Galatasaray, had a phenomenal campaign scoring 37 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions. His impressive form has prompted Galatasaray to push for a permanent deal, as they compete with other European clubs for his signature.
Osimhen’s clear preference is to remain in Europe, and Galatasaray are keen to build their future around him after his game changing contributions last season.
Looking for the best betting experience in Nigeria this November 2025? The Bet9ja promotion code for November 2025 is YOHAIG. With this exclusive code, new users can claim a generous welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on their first deposit. For comprehensive details about the Bet9ja promotion code 2025 in Nigeria, visit https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. Ready to elevate your betting experience? The YOHAIG Bet9ja Promotion Code 2025 unlocks exciting benefits. Start with just ₦100 as your minimum deposit! Begin your betting journey today by using the Bet9ja login signup and entering the Bet9ja bonus code when creating your account. Enjoy an impressive 170 per cent multiple boost bonus plus a free bet option for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To become a valued Bet9ja customer, simply complete the registration process here. Remember that terms and conditions apply when registering with Bet9ja to receive your bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Editorial
Victor Osimhen’s refusal to join Al-Hilal is more than a personal career decision it’s a loud, clear message to the football world: he’s not done with Europe. While the Saudi Pro League continues to draw global stars with eye-watering contracts, Osimhen is choosing ambition over affluence. That decision speaks volumes.
This is a player at the peak of his powers, coming off a season that would make any top striker envious. Thirty seven goals. Forty one games. A league title. And yet, he’s not ready to trade Champions League nights for big paydays. That kind of mindset is exactly what elevates careers from great to legendary.
Galatasaray will do everything in their power to secure him permanently, and rightly so. But with this rejection of Al-Hilal, the race for Osimhen is wide open. Premier League clubs, Serie A contenders, and Bundesliga heavyweights will be watching and probably bidding.
For Nigeria, this is brilliant news too. A motivated, European-based Osimhen sharpens his edge for AFCON and World Cup qualifiers. He remains in the toughest arenas, testing himself at the highest level.
It’s not every day a player chooses legacy over luxury. Osimhen just did.
Did You Know?
- Victor Osimhen won the 2023 African Footballer of the Year award, becoming the first Nigerian to do so since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
- He previously turned down offers from Saudi clubs in 2023, choosing to stay at Napoli for their Champions League campaign.
- Galatasaray’s 2024/25 title win was their second consecutive Turkish Super Lig crown.
- Osimhen is the highest-scoring Nigerian ever in a single European league season.
- Al-Hilal recently won the Saudi Pro League and are preparing for the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.
