George Ilenikhena, a 20-year-old Nigerian and French centre-forward, desires to leave Al-Ittihad and return to Europe because of a lack of playing time. Several clubs have shown interest in him. Bologna made a loan offer with a purchase option of €22 million. The proposal was immediately rejected by the Saudi club's management. Al-Ittihad are reportedly open to a sale to raise funds. The club also rejected a similar loan offer from Trabzonspor which included a €15 million option to buy. They are said to be asking for approximately €20 million for the player. Ilenikhena joined Al-Ittihad in February 2026 from Monaco for a reported fee of €30 million plus €3 million in bonuses, and his contract is valid until 2029. His current market value is €10.00m, according to Transfermarkt.