Al-Hilal targets Victor Osimhen in ambitious move to boost Saudi Pro League

Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal has launched a bold attempt to sign Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen from Napoli, signalling its intent to lure another global star to the Saudi Pro League.

Osimhen, one of the most sought-after forwards in world football, has a €75 million release clause in his contract—applicable only to clubs outside Italy.

Al-Hilal is reportedly prepared to trigger that clause in full as they push to finalise a high-profile move that would further elevate the status of football in the kingdom.

According to reports from both English and Italian media, Al-Hilal has already opened direct talks with Napoli officials.

The club’s leadership is said to be confident that a deal can be reached, with Osimhen reportedly giving his initial approval to the transfer, according to sources close to the Nigerian forward.

While Premier League heavyweights such as Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea have all expressed interest in Osimhen, no deal has materialised with any of them. Paris Saint-Germain has also been linked with the 25-year-old, but their efforts too have stalled.

The striker, who spent part of this season on loan at Galatasaray, impressed in the Turkish Super Lig with his goal-scoring prowess.

His performances have only increased the urgency among potential suitors to act swiftly if they hope to secure his signature before Al-Hilal finalises their approach.

Al-Hilal’s move reflects a broader strategy by Saudi clubs to bring marquee names to their league, a trend that has gathered pace in recent transfer windows. Osimhen, with his combination of pace, strength, and clinical finishing, is seen as an ideal addition to bolster the club’s attacking options.

Though the Premier League remains a preferred destination for many elite players due to its global reach and competitive nature, Al-Hilal’s financial muscle and growing football project offer a compelling alternative.

The club has already made high-profile signings in recent seasons and is keen to position itself as a dominant force not only in Asia but on the global stage.

For Napoli, Osimhen’s departure would mark the end of a chapter that saw him play a pivotal role in the team’s success, including their historic Serie A title win.

The club may now be forced to consider rebuilding its attack should the Saudi offer meet the terms of the release clause.

As negotiations continue, all eyes will be on Osimhen’s next move. A transfer to Al-Hilal would not only be a statement of intent by the Saudi club but also another indication of the growing shift in the global football power dynamic, where Middle Eastern clubs are increasingly able to compete with Europe’s elite for top talent.

The coming days are expected to be crucial as Al-Hilal looks to finalise what could be one of the standout transfers of the summer.