The Saudi Pro League surprised this summer with a financial investment to attract renowned players to the Middle East. However, the value for money of their extravagant spending has not been the best. Most of the signings have been veterans at the end of their careers or underperforming players. Now, the league is reported to have its sights set on some of the Premier League’s best players for next summer.
Mohamed Salah and Kevin De Bruyne of Liverpool and Manchester City respectively have been identified as priority targets. Although both players have been successful with sportsbooks in recent years, it is unlikely that they will make the move to Saudi Arabia as European football remains their preference.
The 4 players the Saudi Pro League has in its sights for the summer
Instead, here we highlight four Premier League players who could be most likely to join the Saudi Pro League next summer:
1. Thiago Alcántara (Liverpool): Despite initial expectations, Thiago has not lived up to expectations at Liverpool due to injuries. Under contract until 2024, Saudi clubs could offer extravagant salaries to secure their services.
2. Thiago Silva (Chelsea): Although the veteran defender stayed at Chelsea this summer, he is in the final year of his contract. An emotional return to Brazil seems possible, but an attractive financial offer in the Middle East could change his course.
3. Jorginho (Arsenal): With the arrival of Declan Rice at Arsenal, Jorginho could spend the season on the bench. In the last year of his contract, his agent has mentioned the possibility of moving. An offer from the Saudi Pro League could tempt him.
4. Anthony Martial (Manchester United): Despite rejecting Saudi offers this summer, Martial’s inconsistency and injuries make him vulnerable. A return to Ligue 1 could be an option, but Saudi Arabia’s financial offers could be too tempting.
The Saudi Pro League seems determined to compete for Premier League talent, and next summer could see some interesting moves in the transfer market.
