Napoli star Victor Osimhen admitted the lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia ‘would’ve changed his life’ and hinted at which teams he’d lean towards in the Premier League one day.
The Nigerian striker was the star of the show in the Campania capital last season during their historic Scudetto success, scoring 26 goals and providing five assists across 32 league games. He stood out as one of the most dangerous centre forwards in Europe, attracting widespread attention.
Saudi side Al-Hilal launched a serious attempt to sign Osimhen in the summer, ultimately offering €200m to Napoli, but president Aurelio De Laurentiis refused to accept, making it clear that he wasn’t ready to let the star striker leave just yet.
Speaking to John Obi Mikel on the ‘Obi One Podcast’ Osimhen first reflected on Al-Hilal’s mega-offer in the summer.
“What was said is true. I have to be honest, I never thought about leaving last summer because Napoli wanted to keep me, but when the offer came from Saudi Arabia, a huge offer, it was hard to refuse. I spoke to Napoli and decided to stay.
“It was crazy… The more I said no, the more they increased the financial offer. It would have changed my life, they never gave up. But I said, no guys, I’m staying.”
He was asked if he wanted to continue playing in Europe.
“Of course. I had talks in August, it was a huge decision for me to make. I spoke to Napoli, and we decided together to refuse.
“I didn’t want people to think I wanted to leave. It was a positive decision for my career. As much as you play football for money, there is also so much more to it.”
Mikel then called Osimhen to head to Chelsea next summer, joking about acting as an intermediary.
“Next season I know you will come to Chelsea man! I tell you, I will be the agent who will broker that deal. I will make sure it happens. We are desperate for someone like you since Drogba left the club.”
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