The Saudi Pro League has been making waves in recent years, splashing big money to lure some of football’s most exciting names. Nigerian stars are no strangers to these mega-money moves either, Footynaija.com reports.
From Ahmed Musa’s headline-grabbing transfer to other Nigerian stars who have also taken their talents to the desert, we bring you the five most expensive Nigerian transfers in Saudi Pro League history.
5. Odion Ighalo: Shanghai Shenhua to Al Shabab FC (€2.5m)
When Ighalo first arrived at Al Shabab in the 20/21 season, many wondered if the former Manchester United loanee still had fire in his boots. Spoiler alert: he absolutely did. The experienced striker hit the ground running in Riyadh, scoring 9 goals in 13 appearances in his debut half season.
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Ighalo followed that up with another half season of clinical finishing, scoring 13 times in 19 outings before Saudi top dogs Al Hilal came calling. His time at Al Shabab may not have produced silverware, but it definitely reminded fans why he was once one of the deadliest finishers in the Premier League.
4. Savior Godwin: Casa Pisa AC to Al Okhdood Club (€2.5m)
Fast forward to the 23/24 season and enter Godwin, one of Nigeria’s brightest wingers. His move from Portuguese side Casa Pisa AC to Al Okhdood came with a lot of excitement, as the newly-promoted Saudi side looked to strengthen their squad.
In his debut campaign, Godwin contributed 6 goals and 1 assist in all competitions and followed that up with a tally of 7 goals and 4 assists in his second season. The Nigerian is often one of Al Okhdood’s most dangerous outlets, making him a fan favourite.
3. Odion Ighalo: Al Shabab to Al Hilal (€2.9m)
Yes, Ighalo’s back on this list, this time for his blockbuster move to Al Hilal midway into the 21/22 season. This transfer turned out to be a masterstroke for both player and club.
Joining the Saudi giants, Ighalo enjoyed one of the most prolific spells of his career. He scored 12 league goals in 13 appearances to clinch the Saudi Pro League Golden Boot and lead Al Hilal to the league title.
On top of that, he helped them secure the King’s Cup the following season, bagging a total of 43 goals in 60 appearances and cementing his legacy as one of the most impactful Nigerian imports in Saudi football history.
2. Onyekuru: Adana Demirspor to Al Fayha FC (€3.2m)
In the summer of 2023, Onyekuru made headlines with his €3.20 million switch from Turkish side Adana Demirspor to Al Fayha FC. The winger, known for his explosive pace and direct style, was seen as a game-changer for his new club.
Onyekuru’s debut season in Saudi Arabia saw him notch up 11 goals and 3 assists, proving to be a vital part of Al Fayha’s attack. Unfortunately, his second season at the club failed to produce any such fireworks and the winger has now moved on to Turkey, joining newly-promoted Genclerbirligi.
1. Ahmed Musa: Leicester City to Al Nassr FC (€16.5m)
Topping our list, and by some distance, is none other than former Nigeria captain Ahmed Musa. The Super Eagles speedster made a stunning €16.50 million switch from Leicester City to Al Nassr in the summer of 2018, becoming the most expensive Nigerian signing in Saudi Pro League history.
Musa made an instant impact, dazzling fans with his searing pace and ability to beat defenders one-on-one. During his stint at Al Nassr, he recorded 9 goals and 14 assists in 55 appearances. More importantly, Musa helped guide Al Nassr to the 18/19 Saudi Pro League title and the Saudi Super Cup in 2019, leaving a lasting legacy at the club.
While injuries slightly hampered his time in Saudi Arabia, there’s no denying that his signing was a landmark moment for Nigerian footballers moving to the Middle East.
