Former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, has issued a strong warning to Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen against making a potential move to Saudi Arabia during the upcoming transfer window.
Mikel Obi believes it would be "a shame" if the prolific forward chooses to continue his career in the Middle East rather than remaining in European football's top leagues.
"I hope there is still a Premier League move for him this summer," Mikel Obi stated in a recent interview. "I don't want to see him in Saudi right now because he still has so much to offer in Europe."
Osimhen, 26, is set to return to Napoli following an impressive loan spell at Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he demonstrated his exceptional goal-scoring abilities with 37 goals in just 41 appearances across all competitions.
Despite being contracted to Napoli, the Nigerian international is widely expected to secure a permanent move away from the Italian club ahead of the 2025/2026 season, with several top European clubs reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
Premier League Move Preferred
Mikel Obi, who enjoyed a distinguished career with Chelsea in the English Premier League, outlined several potential destinations that would better suit Osimhen's talents and career trajectory.
"It would be a shame to see him go there [Saudi Arabia]. So maybe Arsenal, United, Juventus and PSG too [are his options]. Let's see what happens," the former midfielder added.
Osimhen's future has been the subject of intense speculation in recent months, with reports linking him to various European powerhouses. His goal-scoring record at Galatasaray has only enhanced his reputation as one of the most lethal strikers in world football.
The striker recently capped off his successful loan spell in Turkey by winning the 2024/25 Super Lig Golden Boot award, further cementing his status as an elite forward.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Nigerian football fans will be eagerly watching to see if Osimhen heeds Mikel Obi's advice by choosing to continue his career at the highest level of European football rather than being tempted by the lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs.
