Julius OkorieFormer Super Eagles Captain, John Mikel Obi, has told compatriot, Victor Osimhen to resist the temptation to head for Saudi Arabia on transfer at least for now.
The former Chelsea star insists there is a need for Osimhen to continue showcasing his talent in Europe.
Speaking in an interview with Metro, Mikel Obi expressed concern over the recent transfer speculations linking the 26-year-old to the Middle East, stating that such a move would be premature at this stage of Osimhen’s career.
He remained optimistic that a Premier league move will come his way in the course of the transfer window.
‘I hope there is still a Premier League move for him this summer’, Mikel told Metro.
‘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.
He runs around and works hard but he is not the guy who will score goals, put them in the top four and win them trophies. So for me Manchester United might be the destination” he enthused.
Mikel, who spent 11 years at Stamford Bridge winning impressive laurels with the Blues said a move for Osimhen to Saudi for now will not be the best.
‘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. So maybe Arsenal, United, Juventus and PSG too [are his options]. Let’s see what happens” he added.
Mikel was speaking ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 14 in the United States.
READ ALSO: How Osimhen Thrilled Talented Woman With Special Invitation Osimhen enjoyed a phenomenal season in Turkish Super Lig 1, scoring 36 goals and providing eight assists in 40 matches. This performance earned him the league’s highest goalscorer award.
The Nigerian international played a pivotal role in helping Galatasaray clinching both the Süper Lig title and the Turkish Cup, quickly becoming fan’s favourite.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, has revealed why he left Osimhen out of the squad for Russian friendly billed for June 6.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Chelle explained the reasoning behind his decision, citing the player’s uncertain club future and the mental and physical demands of a potential high-profile transfer.
Chelle is equally hoping that Osimhen lands a deal in one of the top clubs adding,“I need to protect him physically and mentally because maybe he will go [and get a transfer move],” Chelle said.
“Maybe a club like Manchester United. Or maybe Chelsea, Barcelona or Real Madrid. So he needs to be focused on that.”
Osimhen, who remains one of Africa’s most sought-after forwards, is yet to make a final decision on his next move.
Julius Okorie is Chief Sports and Entertainment Correspondent for Prime Business Africa. He began his journalism career with the Champion Newspaper and Sporting Champion and later moved on to Daily Independent and the Nation Newspapers. Okorie joined Prime Business Africa in 2024 bringing on board 20 years of experience in writing investigative news on Sports and Entertainment. His well researched and highly informative articles on Sports Business and general entertainment are followed by a wide range of audience.
