Victor Osimhen: Napoli striker can still seal big money move to Saudi Arabia

Premier League club Chelsea were desperate to land Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, but their offer wasn't good enough to convince the reigning African Footballer of the Year.

Although the transfer window in Europe is closed, Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen can still move to the Saudi Pro League as several clubs in the Middle East will be willing to land a player of his calibre.

A transfer to one of Europe's top five leagues is not possible with the window closed on Friday, although the Saudi window remains open until September 2.

Pulse Sports reported that Saudi Arabia club Al Ahli reportedly tabled a deal of over ₦50 billion for the African Player of the Year but Napoli frustrated the deal.

The transfer collapsed due to a disagreement over the transfer fee. While Osimhen had agreed to personal terms with the Saudi club, Napoli's demand for an additional €5 million proved to be a stumbling block, according to Sky Sport in Italy.

Al-Ahli, who had offered €80 million for Osimhen, were unwilling to meet Napoli's revised asking price as they opted for another striker, Ivan Toney from Brentford for a €40m fee.

After Napoli frustrated Al-Ahli, Osimhen's other option was a move to England to team up with Enzo Maresca's side.

However, according to several reports, Chelsea offered the 25-year-old Nigerian a €350,000 weekly wage, which wasn't convincing enough for Osimhen.

With just two days left before the transfer window closes in the Saudi Pro League, the possibility that the Nigerian striker can still move to a Saudi-based club is still high.

Several Saudi clubs have shown interest in Osimhen, and with the transfer window closing soon, they may be willing to make a significant offer to tempt Napoli into selling.

A late bid from a Saudi club, including Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr, could potentially offer Osimhen an escape route out of Napoli.

It's important to note that the final decision will ultimately depend on Napoli's stance and Osimhen's preferences. If Napoli is open to selling and Osimhen is interested in a move to Saudi Arabia, a big-money deal could still materialise.