Victor Osimhen, the 20-year-old striker currently on loan at Galatasaray from Se

Victor Osimhen, the 20-year-old striker currently on loan at Galatasaray from Serie

A side SSC Napoli, has reportedly finalized a three-year deal with Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, effectively thwarting the transfer pursuits of English heavyweights Chelsea and Manchester United. Osimhen has had a phenomenal season with Galatasaray, scoring 36 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions and playing a crucial role in the team's domestic success, helping them win the league and cup double.

According to Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadh, the Nigerian forward has agreed to the terms of the contract and is set to join Al-Hilal on a permanent basis. The Saudi club is prepared to pay the €75 million release clause required to secure Osimhen's transfer from his parent club, which would make him one of the most expensive African footballers in history.

The move to Al-Hilal is not only significant for the player's career but also for the Saudi club's ambitions in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. By signing Osimhen, Al-Hilal aims to bolster their attacking lineup and enhance their chances in the prestigious tournament, which they are set to participate in as the AFC Champions League winners.

The potential transfer is a significant coup for Al-Hilal, as they manage to outmaneuver European clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United, who had also shown interest in the highly rated youngster. This move underscores the growing financial power of the Saudi Pro League and its ability to attract top talents from around the world.

For Osimhen, the decision to join Al-Hilal may offer the opportunity for regular first-team football and a substantial pay increase, as well as the chance to play alongside international stars such as André Carrillo, Bafétimbi Gomis, and Nawaf Al-Abed in the lucrative Middle Eastern league.

However, it remains to be seen if this choice will impact his long-term development and potential to play at the highest levels in Europe, which had been a goal for many young footballers seeking to prove themselves in the Champions League and other top European competitions.