The Saudi Pro League Needs Statement Signings Next Summer
The Saudi Pro League (SPL) turned heads by entering the global transfer market with one of the most ambitious projects ever seen in professional football.
Thanks to the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) unlimited resources, SPL clubs attracted Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez to the Middle East.
However, subsequent transfer windows have been underwhelming. The SPL needs more statement signings and there are some exciting options they could consider.
Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United
Bruno Fernandes was close to moving to the Middle East last summer, but Manchester United reportedly rejected a £100 million transfer bid for him.
United are seemingly reconsidering their stance because Fernandes does not fit into manager Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 set-up.
The Portuguese tactician has shoehorned him in a deeper midfield role, but it is clear he is better suited to the final third than the middle third.
United may accept another offer if it comes their way next summer, and SPL clubs should be queuing up to sign the playmaker.
Despite United’s struggles, Fernandes bagged eight goals and created 16 big chances in 35 Premier League outings last season.
Even though the 31-year-old’s powers are waning, he is still a terrific number 10 to have in the ranks and would be a major coup for the SPL.
Mohamed Salah – Liverpool
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah is another former SPL target who should still be on their transfer shortlist.
The Reds fought hard to keep him from leaving in 2023 and 2024, tying the Egyptian down to a new three-year deal last term.
However, Liverpool might consider parting ways with the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) football icon for the right fee.
Salah has suffered a decline, and the Reds could use a refresh on the right flank, paving the way for an SPL club to capitalise.
The 33-year-old is still more than capable of delivering in the calmer waters of the SPL, and his addition would be a coup for any team.
Salah would be a banker bet to clinch the Golden Boot prize, considering his relentless end product.
Reputable betting sites in Saudi Arabia would be inundated with wagers from Arab punters backing him to claim the prize ahead of Ronaldo.
Salah is a revered star, and his signing would be a massive boost for betting in Saudi Arabia and the league’s brand in general across the MENA region.
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Romelu Lukaku – Napoli
Romelu Lukaku cemented his legacy as one of the greatest strikers of his generation by spearheading Napoli to the Serie A title with 14 goals and 10 assists last term.
The Belgian was terrific, but his untimely long-term injury opened the door for Napoli to sign Rasmus Hojlund from Man United on loan.
Lukaku may not secure a route back into the Napoli team when he returns from injury, and SPL clubs should be clamouring to take him.
He has delivered goals at every club and could become another marquee name to further reinforce the SPL as a force to be respected in football.
Fans come to watch football games for goals, and the former Chelsea and Man United forward is one of the best in the business at hitting the back of the net.
The 32-year-old would relish the chance to compete with Ronaldo, Ivan Toney, Karim Benzema, Joao Felix and Marcos Leonardo for the top scorer award.
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Nico Williams – Athletic Bilbao
Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams was set to join Barcelona last summer, but the deal never materialised due to the latter’s financial constraints.
The Spain international is reportedly on high wages, which the Basque club offered to stave off interest. However, SPL clubs can match his salary demands.
Williams would be a remarkable addition to the SPL. His ability to influence play with his excellent dribbling and deliveries on either foot makes him a real weapon.
He played a key role as Athletic won the Copa del Rey and Spain clinched the 2024 European Championship. He also starred as La Roja reached the Nations League final.
Williams is a potentially fantastic pick-up for the SPL. With clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Barcelona no longer in the running, the road is clear for them to pounce.
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