Written by Rita Uzuh, Sports Writer | June 16, 2025 | SpringnewsNG Media Limited

Manchester United’s chase for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has taken a dramatic new turn, as Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal prepare an eye-watering £42.6 million-per-year contract offer to hijack the deal.

The 26-year-old forward, who is returning to Napoli after an impressive loan spell at Galatasaray, appears set to leave the Italian club after being sidelined under Antonio Conte last season. Despite interest from multiple European teams, Osimhen’s future remains uncertain.

While Al-Hilal were initially frontrunners in the race to sign Osimhen, reports last week revealed that the Super Eagles star rejected a previous offer worth £25.5 million per year, indicating his preference to remain in Europe and compete at the highest level.

Al-Hilal Not Giving Up on Osimhen

However, according to GOAL, Al-Hilal are refusing to back down and are now preparing a final bumper salary offer worth €50 million (£42.6 million) annually in a renewed attempt to lure Osimhen to the Saudi Pro League. The club has also informed Napoli of their readiness to meet his €75 million (£63.9 million) release clause.

Al-Hilal had initially hoped to finalize the transfer before the FIFA Club World Cup summer deadline on June 10, but negotiations stalled. Now, they are making one last aggressive push for the former Lille striker.

Manchester United Reignite Interest

Meanwhile, Manchester United have reportedly reopened talks with Osimhen’s camp amid their search for a marquee striker this summer. The Red Devils, who recently secured Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million, may need to sell key assets, including Rasmus Højlund, who is now linked with a move to Inter Milan, to fund Osimhen’s arrival.

Though United lack Champions League football next season, the allure of Old Trafford and Premier League exposure could prove persuasive. Still, their position remains precarious if other top-tier clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal, or Chelsea make formal bids.

Osimhen’s record speaks for itself. During his time at Napoli, he scored 76 goals and provided 18 assists in 133 appearances. His brief loan stint at Galatasaray was also impressive, with 37 goals and 8 assists in 41 games, though the Turkish club is unlikely to sign him permanently due to financial constraints.

Can Man United Beat Saudi Millions?

Osimhen’s next move will come down to more than just money. While the Saudi offer is financially unmatched, Osimhen is known to prioritize competitive football and global recognition—something the Premier League still offers in abundance.

United will have to act fast and decisively if they are to outmaneuver Al-Hilal and potentially other elite European clubs in this high-stakes transfer saga.

Stay with SpringnewsNG Media Limited for the latest updates on Victor Osimhen’s transfer and other top football news.