Victor Osimhen’s next career move is once again in the spotlight, with the Galatasaray striker reportedly weighing up interest from Saudi Arabia against a potential dream switch to the Premier League — despite strong advice from compatriot John Mikel Obi to resist the lure of the Middle East, Footynaija.com reports.
Osimhen, on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, has enjoyed a blistering campaign in Turkey.
The Nigerian forward has notched 29 goals and powered the Istanbul giants to the brink of a remarkable league and cup double.
Victor Osimhen with Galatasaray fans.
He is the Top Scorer in the Turkish Super Liga with 21 goals, 4 assists in 24 games.
Galatasaray is the biggest team in Turkey with over 30 million Turkish fans. pic.twitter.com/KqvmSx95ku
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) April 15, 2025
Unsurprisingly, Europe’s elite have come calling once more, with Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Real Madrid all said to be monitoring his situation.
Chelsea remain long-term admirers, having come close to securing his signature during the summer transfer window.
Mikel Obi, the former Blues midfielder, played an active role in those talks and remains convinced Osimhen could be the answer to Chelsea’s problems up front.
“I told the kid, ‘Don’t go’,” Mikel revealed on the Obi One Podcast. “Saudi is always going to be there. Come here, come to us. They’ll still be spending. Come to us for three or four seasons.”
Mikel warned Osimhen not to let generational wealth sway his decision at this stage of his career. “How long can you say no to such huge money? At some point, your head gets turned. You have family, parents talking to you. You can’t keep putting it off.”
— Victor Osimhen (@victorosimhen9) April 14, 2025
Saudi Pro League sides are reportedly ready to meet both Napoli’s €75m valuation and Osimhen’s significant wage demands.
However, a report from TBR Football suggests that Osimhen, at least for now, appears aligned with Mikel’s counsel. The 25-year-old is believed to be prioritising a move to the Premier League.
Arsenal, Aston Villa, Newcastle, and Chelsea are among the English clubs being kept updated on his situation. Manchester United have also been informed that Osimhen would be open to joining, even without Champions League football on offer.
As Europe’s summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Osimhen — will he chase glory in England or cash in on a Saudi payday?