Sports
Victor Osimhen makes final decision on future
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen isn’t taking the ‘Blue’ or flying to West London to link up with Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea side.
In a new report, it is stated that Chelsea’s pursuit of Victor Osimhen has officially ended in disappointment, as the Nigerian striker has opted for a lucrative move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, according to reports from Sky Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio.
Osimhen, who had been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, has agreed to a three-year contract with Al-Ahli, worth a staggering €40 million (£33.6m) per year. The deal, now in its final stages, will see Napoli pocket around €80m (£67.3m) plus add-ons.
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Despite Chelsea’s attempts to lure Osimhen with a loan offer that included an obligation to buy, Napoli’s insistence on a permanent deal saw negotiations collapse. The 25-year-old’s decision to head to Saudi Arabia marks a significant shift, as he joins a growing list of top talents opting for the Middle East’s financial allure over European football.
Osimhen’s move not only leaves Chelsea scrambling for alternatives but also raises questions about the future of Ivan Toney, who had also agreed terms with Al-Ahli. With the Nigerian’s arrival, Toney’s potential transfer now hangs in the balance.
Osimhen will join forces with Roberto Firmino and Riyad Mahrez at Al-Ahli if the deal is completed.
According to Fabrizio Romano, it is stated that Al-Ahli offered an affordable and easy release clause for Victor Osimhen as part of their proposal. It is stated to be lower than the reported €100m.
Victor Osimhen’s departure from Napoli marks the end of a successful chapter in Naples, where he scored 76 goals in 133 appearances and played a crucial role in their historic Serie A triumph.
