George Ilenikhena made an immediate statement in Saudi Arabia by scoring twice for Al-Ittihad, although his future at the club remains uncertain before the transfer window closes.
Key takeaways
- The Nigerian forward struck in the 16th and 39th minutes during a 3-0 King’s Cup victory over Al Najma.
- Al-Ittihad paid AS Monaco €30 million for Ilenikhena in February 2026, with a possible €3 million in additional bonuses.
- Bologna and Trabzonspor have both seen loan bids rejected, despite including permanent-transfer options.
- Al-Ittihad would reportedly consider a sale for approximately €20 million.
- Sevilla have proposed €10 million, plus €3 million in incentives and a sizeable sell-on clause.
Interest in a European return
Ilenikhena, who is 20, joined the Saudi club from Monaco in February 2026 in a deal valued at €30 million, with another €3 million potentially payable through bonuses.
His latest display came in the King’s Cup, where he scored twice before half-time as Al-Ittihad defeated Al Najma 3-0. The striker opened the scoring in the 16th minute and added his second goal in the 39th.
Despite that impressive contribution, the forward is said to be considering a move back to Europe. A number of clubs are monitoring his situation and exploring the possibility of signing him.
Bologna presented an arrangement that would have taken Ilenikhena on loan with a €22 million buyout clause, but Al-Ittihad turned down the proposal without delay.
Trabzonspor followed with a similar temporary-transfer offer, including a €15 million option to purchase. That approach was also rejected.
Al-Ittihad set asking price
Although Al-Ittihad are prepared to discuss a permanent departure, the Saudi side are understood to be seeking close to €20 million for the striker.
Sevilla have separately put forward an oral proposal worth €10 million, with €3 million in possible bonuses and a substantial percentage of any future sale included in the package.
Ilenikhena has elected to play for Nigeria at senior level after representing France in youth international football. His start at Al-Ittihad was difficult, but the two-goal showing against Al Najma has underlined his finishing ability at an important moment.
That performance has added weight to the transfer debate surrounding the young forward, with his next move still unresolved as the window approaches its conclusion.
