Victor Osimhen is edging closer to securing a lucrative move to Saudi Arabian champions Al-Hilal as desperate Galatasaray supporters launch increasingly creative campaigns to persuade the Nigeria striker to remain in Istanbul, including a heartfelt plea displayed on a Times Square billboard in New York City.
The 26-year-old is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Al-Hilal over a three-year contract worth close to £15 million per season, according to Sky Sports, despite passionate appeals from Galatasaray fans who have witnessed him light up the Turkish Süper Lig with 25 goals and five assists in 29 games.
The latest fan-driven gesture saw a digital billboard at Times Square display the message “Stay With Us” as part of an ongoing #staywithus campaign, representing one of the most prominent locations globally for the Turkish supporters’ desperate bid to retain their star performer.
The billboard appearance comes ahead of Galatasaray’s upcoming clash against Başakşehir, where fans are planning an even grander tribute involving 5,000 drones that will form a portrait of Osimhen over the Ali Sami Yen Rams Park.
However, these emotional appeals appear unlikely to deter Osimhen from his Saudi Arabian switch, with Al-Hilal president Fahad bin Nafel reportedly receiving verbal confirmation of the striker’s desire to join the Riyadh-based club.
Sky Sports Switzerland’s Sacha Tavolieri previously reported that Osimhen is in direct negotiations with bin Nafel, with personal terms close to being agreed on a contract that would see him earn an annual salary of up to €17.5 million, including bonuses.
The completion of the transfer now hinges solely on approval from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sports, with the ‘financial viability’ committee yet to give the green light to release the necessary government funds required to finalise the transaction.
“While personal terms are close to being reached between Osimhen and Fahad bin Nafel, Al Hilal cannot yet validate this transfer. Indeed, the Saudi club is waiting to receive the total amount expected from the Saudi government in order to finalise the transaction, and thus contact Napoli to conclude the agreement between the clubs,” Tavolieri reports.
Without the Ministry of Sports’ approval to release these funds, the deal would be impossible to complete, though Al-Hilal remain confident of securing government backing for what would be one of the Saudi Pro League’s most significant signings.
