By John Ogunsemore
As one of the top strikers in Europe, Victor Osimhen’s future is one of the hottest topics of discourse among football fans, particularly Nigerians.
His pace, agility and goal-scoring prowess make him a delight to watch whether playing for the Super Eagles or in club games.
Having proven his mettle with Napoli and Galatasaray, winning league titles at both clubs, Osimhen fans expect him to join one of Europe’s biggest clubs, where he can realistically compete for the UEFA Champions League and other top honours.
A move to the wrong club could therefore potentially stall his career due to factors like poor team fit, lack of playing time or a step down in competition.
Osimhen’s huge wage demands, rumoured to be over €12 million annually, and Napoli’s reported €75 million valuation have left top clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain rethinking their interest, pushing him toward riskier options.
However, Osimhen needs a club that offers regular playing time, tactical compatibility and a platform for major competitions, to maintain his trajectory.
Daily Sun examines five clubs that might not be the best fit for the 26-year-old former African Men’s Player of the Year, given these conditions.
Al Hilal (Saudi Pro League)
While Al Hilal has reportedly offered Osimhen a lucrative €40 million per season contract, a move to the Saudi Pro League at 26 could remove him from the European spotlight.
The league’s lower competitive level compared to Europe’s top divisions might hinder his development and visibility for major international tournaments.
Despite his rejection of their offer, persistent interest could tempt him, but it risks diminishing his reputation as a top-tier striker.
Playing outside Europe’s elite leagues could reduce his chances of competing for major titles like the Champions League and lower his market value for future transfers to top clubs.
Everton (Premier League)
Everton’s financial situation and apparent lack of ambition make them an unsuitable destination.
The club’s lack of consistent attacking support and creative midfielders would most likely affect Osimhen’s goal-scoring opportunities.
Their focus on survival rather than competing for trophies would not align with Osimhen’s ambition to play at the highest level.
Therefore, a move to Everton or another lower-table Premier League side could stunt his growth, as he would likely face defensive setups that restrict his space and service, potentially lowering his confidence and output.
Juventus (Serie A)
Juventus have shown interest in Osimhen, but the Old Lady’s tactical setup under Igor Tudor may not suit him.
Juventus prioritise a collective attacking system, and Osimhen’s role as a focal point might be diminished.
Additionally, their unreadiness to meet his reported €12 million wage demands suggests a lack of commitment to making him a centrepiece.
Hence, limited playing time or a tactical mismatch could lead to underperformance, and Juventus’s recent struggles in Serie A might not provide the platform for Osimhen to shine.
Newcastle United (Premier League)
While Newcastle have ambitions, their current squad is built around Alexander Isak as the primary striker.
Osimhen would likely compete for a starting spot, and their midfield lacks the creativity and talent to supply a poacher like him consistently.
Their project is still developing, and qualification for the 2025-2026 Champions League could bolster their chances of attracting top talent like Osimhen, but the wage demand could hinder such a move.
However, Osimhen becoming a secondary option or playing in a system not tailored to his strengths could reduce his goal tally and visibility, potentially leading to a career plateau.
Fenerbahce (Turkish Super Lig)
Fenerbahce passed on signing Osimhen before he joined Galatasaray on loan in September 2024, but a future move to a rival Turkish club could be detrimental.
The Turkish league, while competitive, is a step down from Europe’s top five leagues, and Fenerbahce’s inconsistent European performances would limit Osimhen’s exposure.
Staying in Turkey long-term, especially with a club less dominant than Galatasaray, could signal a lack of ambition.
Remaining in a less competitive league could stagnate his development, and the pressure of rivalries might add unnecessary off-field distractions.