Al Hilal shift focus from Napoli’s Osimhen to PSG’s Brazilian star in ambitious transfer move

The Saudi giants were keen on making the Nigeria international their next big signing, but things did not work out between all the parties involved

Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal have changed course from its vigorous pursuit of Victor Osimhen and set its sights on Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr, Soccernet.ng reports.

The club’s fervent interest in Osimhen was an open secret in recent weeks, marked by multiple communications with Napoli and offers ranging from €120 million to €140 million.

A lucrative two to three-year contract proposal, making Osimhen the highest-earning African player ever, was also tabled, with enthusiastic support from Michael Emenalo, Director of the Saudi Pro League and a former Nigeria international.

However, despite the compelling offer and nudges from family and friends, Osimhen ultimately remained unmoved.

Instead, the Napoli striker has chosen to extend his contract with the Italian club for an additional two years, ending Al-Hilal’s ambitious pursuits.

Undeterred by this setback, Al-Hilal have swiftly shifted their focus.

According to transfer market monitor, Fabrizio Romano, the former Saudi champions have now set their sights on none other than Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and  Brazil forward Neymar Jr.

The club has presented a substantial proposal to Neymar Jr, described as a “huge bid,” in recent hours. Negotiations are underway, and Neymar appears genuinely intrigued by this enticing opportunity.

With Al-Hilal’s recent pivot, Osimhen can now dedicate his attention to the upcoming season with Napoli.

The 24-year-old striker has showcased remarkable form during pre-season, consistently finding the back of the net, including a recent standout performance against Apollon Limassol.

As he strives to match or surpass his impressive record of 26 goals from the previous season, Osimhen is poised to lead Napoli’s charge in their league title defence.

The team’s Serie A journey begins with an away fixture against Frosinone next weekend.

This post was last modified on August 13, 2023 12:08 pm

Imhons Erons

Share
Published by
Imhons Erons

Recent Posts

Kelechi Iheanacho: Five clubs in race to sign Sevilla forward ahead of January window

The January transfer window is fast approaching, and Sevilla FC forward Kelechi Iheanacho has become… Read More

5 hours ago

Boavista slam ₦9.6 billion price-tag on Super Eagles star amid from Trabzonspor

Portuguese club Boavista have slapped a hefty ₦9.6 billion price-tag on Super Eagles defender Bruno… Read More

5 hours ago

Why Taiwo Awoniyi’s market value has dropped by ₦13.6 billion at Nottingham Forest

Taiwo Awoniyi’s time at Nottingham Forest has taken a disappointing turn, with the Nigerian striker's… Read More

7 hours ago

Why Chelsea doesn’t need Victor Osimhen – Ex-Man City star Wright-Philips

Former English international Shaun Wright-Phillips has weighed in on Chelsea's potential pursuit of Super Eagles… Read More

9 hours ago

Kvaratskhelia or Yunus Akgün? Victor Osimhen speaks on his preferred teammate

Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker, Victor James Osimhen, refused to pick a side when he… Read More

10 hours ago

17-year-old Nigeria-eligible defender pens professional deal with Chelsea

Teenage English sensation, Olutayo Peter Subuloye, has penned his first professional contract with two-time UEFA… Read More

13 hours ago