Saudi Pro League Targets Ballon d’Or Winner in Bold Transfer Move
Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly setting their sights on a stunning transfer target: Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé. The PSG forward has recently enjoyed considerable success, lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy and earning the prestigious Ballon d’Or award within months of each other.
Ousmane Dembélé’s Rise to Stardom
Dembélé has established himself as one of the premier football talents globally. Last season alone, he scored 35 goals for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), solidifying his status as a top-tier player.
Ambitious Plans from Saudi Pro League
Sky Sports reports that Saudi Pro League officials are actively working to secure Dembélé’s transfer this summer. They aim to bring him to Saudi Arabia, joining notable figures such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Darwin Núñez.
Challenges from PSG
Despite the ambitions of Saudi clubs, PSG is not ready to part with their star player. The French club is reportedly preparing a long-term contract offer to retain Dembélé, who currently earns approximately £15 million annually.
Potential Earnings in the Saudi League
If Dembélé were to make the jump, he could become one of the league’s highest earners. Cristiano Ronaldo currently holds this title, receiving a staggering £488,000 per day at Al-Nassr.
Historical Context of Transfers
This would not be the first time Saudi clubs have successfully attracted an active Ballon d’Or winner. Karim Benzema, who won the award in 2022, joined Al-Ittihad the following summer after a phenomenal stint with Real Madrid, where he scored 57 goals in 87 appearances.
Other High-Profile Interests
- Last summer, Al-Hilal made a £100 million bid for Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, seeking to triple his salary.
- Fernando opted to remain at United, emphasizing his desire to compete at the highest level.
- Al-Hilal has also pursued Liverpool’s Mo Salah, who recently signed a new deal but remains a target for the league.
The Saudi Pro League continues to demonstrate its ambition to elevate its status by pursuing top-tier talent. With players like Dembélé potentially on the line, the future of the league looks promising.
