Al-Hilal turn to En-Nesyri after Osimhen rejects record €160m offer

Victor Osimhen (Photo Credit: Getty)

Victor Osimhen has once again been presented with a record-shattering contract by Saudi giants Al-Hilal, who are offering a staggering €160 million package over three years. The deal would see the Nigerian striker pocket more than €40 million per season — enough to make him the highest-paid Nigerian footballer in history.

Despite the financial lure, Osimhen appears unmoved. Now enjoying his off-season in Nigeria, the 26-year-old remains firm in his desire to continue playing in Europe, snubbing six previous offers from the Saudi club. This latest effort includes a personal push from Al-Hilal manager Simone Inzaghi, who plans to contact the player directly.

While Napoli are open to negotiations, Osimhen is reportedly holding out for interest from elite European clubs like Real Madrid, Chelsea, Arsenal, PSG, or Manchester United. Galatasaray, where he had a successful loan spell, are also keen on bringing him back on a permanent basis.

However, with Osimhen uninterested, Al-Hilal are already preparing a Plan B. According to reports from TGRT Haber, they’ve shifted their attention to Youssef En-Nesyri — a player admired by newly appointed Fenerbahçe boss Jose Mourinho. The Moroccan striker, who netted 30 goals and delivered seven assists last season, is under contract until 2029.

Mourinho sees En-Nesyri as a cornerstone of his project and reportedly considers him indispensable. The Portuguese tactician made En-Nesyri his first major signing after taking over at Fenerbahçe, so any attempt to lure the 27-year-old away may involve significant negotiation and resistance.

Al-Hilal’s pursuit of attacking reinforcements comes amid fierce competition in the Saudi Pro League. But with the Osimhen chase likely to fail and En-Nesyri now in their sights, their summer transfer plans are evolving rapidly — and the club’s willingness to spend big is clear. Should Mourinho refuse to greenlight a transfer, Al-Hilal could be left scrambling once again — further complicating their search for a marquee striker capable of making headlines both on and off the pitch.

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