A quick look at Victor Osimhen's potential teammates in Al Ahli's star-studded squad including Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino.
Nigerian international Victor Osimhen nears a move to join Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli as he continues the push to leave Serie A side SSC Napoli this summer.
However, the potential move seems to have taken an unexpected turn following recent developments that suggest that the transfer may face significant hurdles due to Al Ahli's foreign player quota and budget constraints.
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But as earlier reported, Al Ahli and Napoli had agreed to a fee for the striker, including a total package worth €80 million and a four-year contract for Osimhen, worth €25-30 million per season net which will also include a release clause as demanded by Osimhen.
If the transfer goes through, Osimhen could potentially link up with an impressive squad of international talent at Al Ahli, the Saudi Pro League club. Let's take a look at some of them.
Edouard Mendy (32) - Senegal
Position: Goalkeeper
Former Chelsea star, instrumental in their 2021 Champions League victory and also helping Teranga Lions of Senegal to a first-ever AFCON title.
The brilliant shot-stopper is also known for his excellent shot-stopping abilities and commanding presence
Robert Ibañez (25) - Brazil
Position: Right-back
Rising star known for his attacking prowess and defensive solidity
Previously played for Atalanta in Serie A
Merih Demiral (26) - Turkey
Position: Center-back
Experienced defender who has played for Serie A giants like Juventus and Atalanta before the move to Saudi Arabia.
Known for his physical presence and tactical awareness
Gabri Veiga (22) - Spain
Position: Midfielder
An exciting young talent who impressed at Celta Vigo before controversially leaving LaLiga at a very young age.
Veiga is known for his creativity and goal-scoring ability from midfield
Franck Kessié (27) - Ivory Coast
Position: Central Midfielder
Former AC Milan and Barcelona player who also departed Europe for Saudi Arabia from where he helped Cote d’Ivoire beat Osimhen and Nigeria in the AFCON 2023 final.
Kessie is renowned for his box-to-box style and physical dominance
Modou Barrow (31) - Gambia
Position: Winger
Experienced player with stints in the English Premier League for Brighton and Hove Albion.
Known for his pace and dribbling skills
Riyadh Mahrez (33) - Algeria
Position: Right Winger
The former African player of the year is a multiple Premier League winner with Manchester City and Leicester City.
Mahrez needs no further introduction as he is renowned for his dribbling skills and ability to create chances and of course, remarkable first touch.
Roberto Firmino (32) - Brazil
Position: Forward
Liverpool legend, a key part of their recent Premier League and Champions League winning teams
Known for his unique False 9 role, combining scoring with creative playmaking, Firmino recently went viral after he became a pastor.
Ongoing Debate
As this transfer sage rages on, the debate surrounding Osimhen's potential move continues. Supporters like Nigerian Beach Soccer legend Abu Azeez, who recently moved to the Bangladesh Premier League for improved financial stability, continue to back Osimhen's right to prioritise financial security. However, the feasibility of the move now appears to be in question.