Forget Chelsea and Man United! Ex-Super Eagles star insists Saudi Arabia is Osimhen’s best bet

Former Nigeria international Mobi Oparaku has urged Victor Osimhen to consider moving to Saudi Arabia rather than joining Chelsea or Manchester United when he leaves Galatasaray this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen departed Napoli last year on loan to Galatasaray after it became clear that he was not part of Antonio Conte’s plans.

The Super Eagles striker came close to signing for Chelsea on transfer deadline day, but negotiations collapsed in the final stages. However, the Blues are expected to reignite their interest in him this summer.

Nigeria and Galatasaray star Victor OsimhenNigeria and Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen
Nigeria and Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen. Photo by IMAGO

Chelsea won’t be the only club chasing Osimhen. Juventus have emerged as a potential destination, while PSG, Manchester United, and Liverpool remain long-time admirers.

Another intense transfer saga surrounding the Nigerian forward is expected when the 2024-25 season ends.

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Saudi Arabian clubs have also been persistent in their pursuit of Osimhen, with Al Hilal having a €100 million bid rejected by Napoli in the past.

While a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs could elevate Osimhen to world-class status, Oparaku insists that Saudi Arabia is the smarter choice, particularly financially.

Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen during SSC Napoli s 2024-25 preseason training camp [Photo credit/Imago]

What has Oparaku said concerning Osimhen?

The 1996 Olympic gold medalist believes a switch to the Saudi Pro League would secure Osimhen’s financial future, ensuring generational wealth.

“I see kindergarten players making big moves, and Osimhen was denied that opportunity to choose,” Oparaku told Brila FM.

“Personally, I would have carried Osimhen on a plane to Saudi. If he was my brother, I’d have kidnapped him if necessary.”

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring for Galatasaray. Photo by IMAGO

Osimhen’s performances for Galatasaray have been exceptional, making it nearly impossible for clubs to overlook him.

The Nigerian striker has scored 12 goals and provided four assists in just 16 Super Lig games, while also netting five goals and an assist in six Europa League matches, helping Galatasaray reach the knockout round playoffs.

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad. From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.

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