Chelsea’s pursuit of Victor Osimhen has received a major boost following the dismissal of reports linking the Nigerian striker with a lucrative move to Al-Hilal.
Claims of a €45 million-per-year salary offer from the Saudi Pro League giants have been described as “very false” by Nigerian journalist and Osimhen confidant, Buchi Laba.
Laba, considered a reliable source on the player’s camp, clarified via X (formerly Twitter) that while Saudi interest in Osimhen is longstanding, the striker has no intention of moving to the Middle East.
He noted that Napoli’s valuation previously blocked a deal, and reiterated that Osimhen is not entertaining talks with Al-Hilal this summer.
The news is significant for Chelsea, who have been closely monitoring the 26-year-old but are yet to formalize a bid.
Arsenal remain interested, while Manchester United’s absence from the Champions League next season likely weakens their position in the race.
Osimhen’s stock continues to rise after a prolific campaign at Galatasaray, where he scored 36 goals and added eight assists in 40 appearances across all competitions.
However, his exclusion from the Turkish club’s squad for the weekend clash with Göztepe has intensified speculation about an imminent move.
