Former Manchester United striker Odion Ighalo has backed fellow Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen to seriously consider a switch to the Saudi Pro League amid a big-money offer from Al-Hilal. Osimhen, 26, remains one of the most sought-after centre-forwards in the world, and his future at Napoli looks increasingly uncertain with just 12 months left on his contract and a £64 million release clause.
Despite links with Premier League heavyweights Manchester United and Arsenal, Al-Hilal’s eye-watering contract proposal reportedly worth £34 million per year is back on the table after Osimhen turned down an earlier approach from the Saudi club last year. Ighalo, who enjoyed stints with Al-Shabab, Al-Hilal, and Al-Wehda, says a move to the Middle East could be a major career win.
“If he asked me, of course, I would say go,” Ighalo said in a chat with News Central TV. “Whatever decision he makes now or in two years, it’s a win-win for him. They came for him last year, he said no. They’re back again—and they will still return.”
Osimhen had an explosive loan spell at Galatasaray, where he netted 37 goals in 41 games. But with Napoli looking to cash in before he walks away for free, the striker’s options are wide open. Ighalo, who spoke about Osimhen’s mental strength and maturity, also stressed how underrated African strikers like him are on the global stage.
“For me, you cannot talk about the best strikers in the world right now without mentioning Victor,” Ighalo continued. “He’s a classic number nine. Sadly, we Africans tend to underrate our own players.”
While Osimhen remains a target for United and Arsenal, other forward options have also emerged. Viktor Gyokeres, despite being on United’s radar, is reportedly favouring a move to Arsenal.
Meanwhile, former United defender Gary Pallister believes Newcastle’s Alexander Isak would be the “ideal signing” for the Red Devils.
“Isak is proven in the Premier League,” Pallister told Metro. “If I were United, I’d go for him. Zirkzee and Hojlund struggled last season, and United need a proper centre-forward. Isak has shown he can deliver at this level.”
With Osimhen’s future still up in the air, a decision looms between financial security in Saudi Arabia and sporting legacy in Europe. Either way, Ighalo is confident that whatever choice Osimhen makes, it will benefit his career.