Napoli's striking sensation, Victor Osimhen, recently disclosed the compelling reasons behind turning down a substantial offer from Saudi Arabia, a choice he acknowledges was arduous, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra.
Osimhen, the standout performer for the Campania capital in their historic Scudetto-winning season, boasted an impressive record of 26 goals and five assists across 32 league games. His stellar performance catapulted him into the limelight, drawing attention from football giants like Manchester United and Chelsea worldwide.
In a candid conversation with John Obi Mikel on the 'Obi One Podcast' via Calciomercato.com, Osimhen shared his insights on the Premier League and his preferred clubs.
Mikel playfully urged Osimhen to consider a move to Chelsea in the upcoming summer, acting as the 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."
To this, the 24-year-old striker revealed that he contemplates two EPL clubs for a potential move, rejecting any specific favorite.
"I don’t have a favorite Premier League club, but I have two shirts, Chelsea and Manchester United. Many of my friends are Chelsea fans, a few Man United. The Premier League is the most popular league for any African player; it’s a great league," Osimhen stated.
Despite a substantial €200m offer from Saudi side Al-Hilal in the summer, Napoli's president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, staunchly refused, signaling his determination to retain the star striker. Osimhen acknowledged that the offer 'would've changed his life' but chose to stay with Napoli after discussions with the club.
"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."
When asked about his desire to continue playing in Europe, Osimhen affirmed his commitment.
"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," Osimhen emphasized.
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