Osimhen to Al Hilal: What’s behind the club’s latest transfer plan

Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal are set to reignite their pursuit of Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen ahead of a possible move from Galatasaray this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

Osimhen has been the subject of intense transfer speculation from several clubs across Europe and Saudi Arabia, with teams looking to add the Super Eagles star to their lineups for the new season.

The Nigerian star has been in sensational form since joining Galatasaray from Napoli on an initial loan deal in 2024, scoring 61 goals in 74 appearances across all competitions and helping the Turkish giants win three trophies in two seasons.

He has started the new season in superb form once again, scoring twice in Galatasaray’s 2-2 draw with Corum in their opening game of the new campaign and does not appear ready to slow down his goalscoring form.

However, despite repeatedly stating that he wants to continue at Galatasaray, a change could still happen before the end of the transfer window as interest in his services continues to grow.

Why Al Hilal are back for Osimhen

Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal have been long-term admirers of Osimhen, dating back to his time at Napoli, and they are now back in contention to sign the 27-year-old as per recent reports.

The Saudi club previously pushed hard to sign the striker and even offered him a lucrative contract, but Osimhen turned down the proposal in favour of remaining at Galatasaray.

This summer could present another opportunity for Al Hilal to finally secure his signature and they have already seen another big offer rejected by the Turkish champions.

Al Hilal’s interest has now been strengthened by their need for a new striker. First-choice centre forward Karim Benzema is reportedly close to leaving the club despite joining only a few months ago.

Benzema could be allowed to leave and negotiate with other clubs over a possible transfer. Meanwhile, Darwin Nunez, who also joined Al Hilal last summer, could soon be on his way out as well, with the Uruguayan striker close to a move to Trabzonspor.

If both Nunez and Benzema leave, Al Hilal would be left without an established senior striker heading into the season. That is why the club are keen to bring in Osimhen and make him their main option in attack.

While a deal previously looked difficult, the situation could become easier if Al Hilal are willing to meet Galatasaray’s valuation of the Nigerian striker and match his salary demands, which could prove difficult for several European clubs to match this summer.

However, Al Hilal will still face stern competition from European clubs before they can seal a deal for Osimhen.

If they manage to meet Galatasaray’s demands and convince the striker to move to Saudi Arabia, they could finally secure his signature and bring an end to the uncertainty surrounding his future.