Monaco forward George Ilenikhena is being linked with a surprise move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, with the Ligue 1 club potentially facing a decision over the future of one of their most highly rated young attackers.
The 19-year-old centre-forward, valued at €12.00m on Transfermarkt, is the subject of speculation over a switch from the Principality to Jeddah, according to the latest transfer rumours. The level of probability around the deal is currently listed as “?”, underlining that discussions, if any, remain at an early and uncertain stage.
Ilenikhena is under contract at Monaco, but with no publicly listed expiry date, observers have noted that his situation could develop in a way that leaves the French club vulnerable to losing him or even opens the door to a free-agent scenario further down the line if no agreement is found. For now, though, he remains an AS Monaco player and any move would require the clubs to reach a deal.
Born in Lagos on 16 August 2006 and standing at 1.85m, the left-footed striker represents both Nigeria and France at national level on paper, reflecting his dual nationality. He operates primarily as a centre-forward and wears the number 19 shirt for Monaco.
Ilenikhena’s rapid rise has taken him from Amiens SC’s youth ranks to their first team, then to Royal Antwerp in Belgium, before joining Monaco from the Jupiler Pro League side. His market value has fluctuated in recent years, peaking at €15.00m during his early months in Ligue 1 before settling at €12.00m in the latest assessment on 15 December 2025.
Having already experienced senior football in France, Belgium and now Monaco’s first team in Ligue 1, a move to Al-Ittihad would add the Saudi Pro League to a quickly expanding CV. If the transfer does materialise, it could mark a pivotal step in shaping his reputation as one of the most mobile young forwards of his generation and test how far his potential can carry him on the global stage.
