It’d Be A Disappointment If Osimhen Moves To Saudi Arabia – Mikel

John Obi Mikel has encouraged Victor Osimhen to prioritize a move to the Premier League rather than heading to Saudi Arabia, describing a transfer to the Middle East as premature.

“I don’t want to see him in Saudi right now because he still has so much to offer in Europe. It would be a shame to see him go there,” Mikel told Metro.

“So maybe Arsenal, United, Juventus, and PSG too [are his options]. Let’s see what happens.”

Osimhen, 26, is set to return to Napoli following an impressive loan stint at Galatasaray, where he netted 37 goals in 41 matches.

Despite this success, his relationship with Napoli remains tense. Galatasaray are keen to retain him, while Al-Hilal have expressed interest in bringing him to Saudi Arabia.

Mikel, a former Chelsea star, had hoped Osimhen would join Stamford Bridge but acknowledges the club has chosen a different path with the signing of Liam Delap.

“Everyone knows who I wanted to see come to the football club… It is a shame he didn’t come to Chelsea, the club he supported as a kid growing up,” Mikel said.

Now, he believes Arsenal or Manchester United are more plausible destinations.

“I think the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United, they still need a striker. I don’t think [Rasmus] Hojlund is the guy for Manchester United,” Mikel said.

“So for me, Manchester United might be the destination.”

Although United will not participate in European competitions next season, Mikel feels Osimhen might still consider the move.

“Maybe he would say, ‘I will give it a season’… It is something Victor might consider,” he added.

“I hope there is still a Premier League move for him this summer… I’ve had a few conversations with him… He is working to make sure he ends up at a top, top European league where he can showcase his talent and compete to win the Champions League.”