Saudi Pro League giants Al Ittihad have successfully negotiated a high-profile transfer for AS Monaco’s breakout striker George Ilenikhena. According to transfer specialist Fabrice Hawkins, the Ligue 1 club accepted a substantial €33m bid on Monday to facilitate the teenager’s move to Jeddah.
The 19-year-old forward, born in Lagos, emerged as one of the most coveted young talents in Europe this window, attracting serious interest from Bundesliga outfits Bayer Leverkusen, Eintracht Frankfurt, and VfB Stuttgart, as well as French side Lille.
Ilenikhena ultimately chose a lucrative path to the Middle East despite the allure of staying within Europe’s top five leagues. The powerful centre-forward initially joined Monaco from Belgian champions Royal Antwerp in the summer of 2023, where he quickly earned a reputation as a clinical finisher. During his tenure at the Stade Louis II, the French-Nigerian attacker netted 10 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions, including several decisive strikes in the UEFA Champions League.
The deal marks another statement of intent for Al Ittihad as they continue to integrate elite young talent alongside their veteran superstars. Monaco officials authorized the sale to capitalize on the striker’s soaring market value, having originally signed him for approximately €18.75m. Ilenikhena will now travel to Saudi Arabia to undergo medical examinations and sign a long-term contract, ending his brief but impactful stint in the Principality.
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