Odion Ighalo currently leads the Saudi Pro League in goals with 18
Paris Saint-Germain forward, Lionel Messi, has been linked with a transfer to Al-Hilal, with a recent rumour claiming that the Argentine’s move to Saudi Arabia might result in the departure of Nigerian sensation Odion Ighalo.
Reports revealed that the Argentina striker will play in Saudi Arabia next season under a blockbuster deal to reignite his football battle with Cristiano Ronaldo, who earlier joined Al-Nassr.
Soccernet.ng understands that, as PSG implements a new hiring strategy that focuses on discovering young French players, the Argentine forward is anticipated to leave the club this summer. Barcelona, where he formerly played, is reportedly exploring an incredible offer to lure him back to Camp Nou.
#UPDATE Argentine superstar Lionel Messi will play in Saudi Arabia next season under a “huge” deal, a source with knowledge of the negotiations told AFP on Tuesday.#AFPSports pic.twitter.com/cGaaTONvav
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) May 9, 2023
But with the recent report, the Riyadh-based club, according to AFP News Agency, have secured a deal to sign the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner in a deal estimated to be worth approximately £400 million.
Odion Ighalo’s contract with Al-Hilal expires next month.
The Blue Wave’s move for the former Barcelona forward might nail the exit of the Nigerian star. #Transfers
— Soccernet.ng (@soccernet_ng) May 6, 2023
A total of 18 of Al-Hilal’s 45 goals this season have been scored by the Nigerian international, who has also contributed two assists in the Saudi Pro League for the Blue Waves.
However, rumours indicate that the club has not been in touch with him about a potential contract extension; his current deal expires at the end of the month (June 30).
Speculation surfaced that the former Manchester United attacker might bid the team farewell at the conclusion of his contract.
Nevertheless, reports suggest that Messi wants to stay in Europe for the time being, and Al-Hilal are now subject to a transfer embargo. That leaves Messi with just PSG and Barcelona as his two top choices.
