Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal are reportedly leading the chase for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, with Real Madrid also interested. However, Chelsea may struggle to afford his wages, and a January move is now more likely, especially after his agent threatened legal action over TikTok videos posted by Napoli.
Osimhen has been one of the most in-demand strikers in Europe since joining Napoli from Lille in 2020. He scored 26 goals in 31 games across all competitions last season, helping Napoli to a third-place finish in Serie A and a quarter-final run in the Champions League.
Al-Hilal are said to be willing to offer Osimhen a huge contract, with wages reportedly in the region of £12 million per year. This would make him one of the highest-paid players in the world.
Real Madrid are also interested in Osimhen, but they are more likely to wait until next summer to make a move. The Spanish giants are currently focused on signing Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain, and they may not have the resources to sign Osimhen as well in January.
Chelsea are also interested in Osimhen, but they are facing financial problems. The Blues have spent heavily in recent years, and they are now under pressure to sell players before they can buy any more.
Osimhen's agent, Roberto Calenda, has threatened legal action against Napoli over TikTok videos posted by the club. Calenda claims that the videos are a violation of Osimhen's image rights.
This controversy could further accelerate Osimhen's departure from Napoli. The club are reportedly keen to sell him in January, and they may be willing to accept a lower offer than they would have demanded in the summer.
A January move to Saudi Arabia or Spain would be a major coup for Osimhen. He would be joining two of the biggest clubs in the world, and he would have the chance to play in the Champions League.
It remains to be seen which club Osimhen will join, but it is clear that he is one of the most sought-after players in the world.