Saudi Arabia has gone all out. The Arab country wants to put its football on the international map and the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr is just the starting signal to strengthen a league that is trying to attract some of the best football players in Europe.
Saudi clubs do not hesitate to use their checkbook to tempt stars of the stature of Leo Messi or Karim Benzema and it is clear that this summer will be important for their football development plan.
With Cristiano’s claims and money, many are questioning whether to jump in the pool and get on the Saudi soccer train. These are the footballers who could end up in your league.
1
N’Golo Kante
The 32-year-old French midfielder is close to completing his move to Al-Ittihad, where he will meet Karim Benzema. A contract for two seasons, with an optional one, at a rate of 100 million euros each, seems to have attracted him.
2
Sergio Busquets
At 35 years old, Barca’s benchmark has offers from Saudi football. Al-Shabab, Vicente Moreno’s Al-Nassr, where Cristiano Ronaldo plays, and Al-Hilal have contacted him and are speculating about a contract of 20 million net per season. Sergio is also considering other MLS options.
3
Sadio Mane
His first season at Bayern (31 years old) was not as expected, with a poor performance, a serious injury and the controversy over his punch against Leroy Sané. His departure seems to have been granted and Al-Ettifaq are willing to tempt him to add to the list of stars in the Saudi league.
4
Jordi Alba
His decision not to continue at Barça has sparked the interest of several clubs, including two from Saudi Arabia. The 34-year-old winger also has an offer from Inter Miami.
5
Romelu Lukaku
20 million euros net per season offer from Al-Hilal to try to recruit the Belgian. At the age of 30, the striker should return to the discipline of Chelsea, although the Saudi money may encourage him to embark on a new adventure in Arabia.
6
Sergio Ramos
The 37-year-old from Seville is without a team after ending his contract with PSG and has an offer from Al-Hilal. It’s 20 million dollars tax-free that tempts him to join Cristiano and Benzema.
7
Karim Benzema
The current Ballon d’Or was Cristiano’s second crack at Saudi football. Al-Ittihad offered him 200 million euros per season and the Frenchman did not hesitate. At age 35, he will live a golden retirement in Arabia.
8
Leo Messi
It may not happen, but Arabia spread the nets on the best soccer player in history with a contract of around 600 million per season. Leo, 35, decided to go to Miami.
9
Luka Modric
At the age of 37, he is considering whether to continue at Real Madrid or accept a proposal from Arabia. His decision will take place after the ‘Final Four’ of the Nations League.
10
aubameyang
At 33 years old, Saudi football seems to be his next destination. He has no role at Chelsea and is on the radar of four Saudi clubs, along with Cristiano and Benzema’s Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad.
Eleven
Lewandowski
The 34-year-old Polish striker was also tempted by a juicy offer from Arabia, but decided to continue with the Barça club.
Source: La Verdad
I’m Rose Herman and I work as an author for Today Times Live. My expertise lies in writing about sports, a passion of mine that has been with me since childhood. As part of my job, I provide comprehensive coverage on everything from football to tennis to golf.
