Al-Hilal turn to Nigerian star who Jose Mourinho hailed as ‘fantastic’ after failed move for Mo Salah

Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal have turned their attention to Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen after missing out on a sensational move for Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, Footynaija.com reports.

Salah recently decided to remain at Anfield, agreeing to a two-year contract extension despite interest from the Saudi Pro League.

The deal would have been a record-breaking transfer, but his decision has prompted Al-Hilal to explore alternative marquee targets using the same substantial budget.

Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, 26)
Rasmus Højlund (Man United, 22)

Compare players https://t.co/McR5zrPkTO https://t.co/zThr89Jv2U pic.twitter.com/GKdn5NLpd1

— DataMB (@DataMB_) April 25, 2025

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Napoli forward Osimhen – currently on loan at Galatasaray – is now on the club’s radar.

The 26-year-old is reportedly open to a move to Saudi Arabia, and Al-Hilal believe they could tempt him with a lucrative offer and the promise of leading a high-profile project.

Osimhen, one of Africa’s most sought-after strikers, has previously been linked with Premier League sides including Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal.

Victor Osimhen spending time with Galatasaray fans after a match. ❤️

One of them wanted his shirt but he didn’t have one available…

“Give your number and we will send a jersey to you.”, Osimhen said. pic.twitter.com/lycNjENbsI

— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) April 24, 2025

However, the financial might of the Saudi Pro League continues to lure top talent, and Osimhen could follow in the footsteps of Neymar and Aleksandar Mitrović, both of whom joined Al-Hilal last season.

José Mourinho, who has faced Osimhen severally during his time in Italy and Turkey, has spoken highly of the Nigerian forward. “Osimhen is a fantastic player,” Mourinho said in an interview. “If I were at a club that could spend €70–75 million, I would buy him.”

Al-Hilal are keen to make a major statement ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where they will represent Asia.

With Salah off the table, Osimhen could become the marquee addition they need to boost their global credentials.