Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi has expressed his hope that Victor Osimhen won’t join the Saudi Pro League this summer, given Chelsea’s interest in signing a new striker. Chelsea were in talks to sign Osimhen last summer but were unable to agree a deal with Napoli.
Mikel said, “I hope he doesn’t go there. That was my fight, that was my conversation with him in the summer. I told the kid, ‘Don’t go’.” He emphasized that Saudi Arabia will continue to spend on football, even without the World Cup until 2034. “Come here, come to us (Chelsea), they (Saudi Arabia) will still be spending, come to us for three or four seasons,” Mikel advised.
However, Mikel acknowledged the allure of the lucrative Saudi Pro League deals. “At some point, your head gets turned. You have family members talking to you, parents talking to you; it’s generational money. You can’t keep putting it off; at some point, your head is going to get turned.”
Osimhen has been thriving on loan at Galatasaray, scoring 28 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions. Chelsea are considering several players, including Osimhen, Liam Delap, Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, and Jonathan David, with Delap topping the list due to his £30m relegation release clause.
Mikel’s comments come as Osimhen’s future remains uncertain, with Galatasaray reportedly ready to bid €70m for the striker’s services. Chelsea’s interest in Osimhen could potentially sway his decision, but the allure of Saudi Arabia’s wealth may prove too great to resist.
Chelsea’s pursuit of Osimhen would align with their policy of signing younger players. The Blues are keen on bringing in a new striker this summer, and Osimhen’s impressive form makes him an attractive target. However, Osimhen’s potential move to Saudi Arabia would depend on various factors, including the offer from Galatasaray and other potential suitors.
For now, Mikel’s advice to Osimhen is clear: prioritize Chelsea over the Saudi Pro League. With Osimhen’s talent and Chelsea’s interest, it remains to be seen whether the striker will heed Mikel’s words or succumb to the allure of Saudi Arabia’s riches.