Chelsea, Man Utd, Arsenal out of race to sign Al Hilal target Osimhen – Afcon winner shares his view

Premier League giants Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester United have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign Victor Osimhen ahead of the 2025-2026 season.

Osimhen, who spent the season on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, delivered a sensational campaign with the Turkish champions—netting 37 goals and registering eight assists in 41 appearances across all competitions.

His outstanding form has attracted attention from top clubs around the globe, including Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Galatasaray, and Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

Despite their interest, the Premier League clubs have backed away due to their reluctance to meet Osimhen's high wage demands — a move that has opened the door for Al Hilal to emerge as the frontrunner for his signature.

The Saudi club is reportedly on the verge of completing the deal, having agreed to meet both the Nigerian international's salary expectations and his release clause.

Meanwhile, former Super Eagles striker and 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner, Brown Ideye, voiced his frustration over European clubs stepping back from the deal.

"I don't believe the top 5 clubs in Europe can't pay 350 or 400k a week for a player like him," Ideye posted on social media platform X. "When players that are not on his level earn the same amount."

The Nigerian international is currently reported to earn around €12 million annually. 

However, Al Hilal have reportedly offered him a staggering €40 million per year — equivalent to over ₦71 billion — in a bid to lure him to the Saudi Pro League.

With the FIFA Club World Cup set to kick off in just a few days, Al Hilal are hopeful that Osimhen will give his approval soon, as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the prestigious tournament.

Adeyemi Adewale

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