The Saudi Pro League is the talk of the town ahead of the new season.
Already a common name this transfer window, the division have snuffed up some of the world’s best talent, with the likes of Karim Benzema, Kalidou Koulibaly, N’Golo Kante, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Ruben Neves among those who have taken their footballing skills east.
They remain far from done, and are keen to continue adding some of the worlds best talent after seemingly being handed carte blanche by the Public investment fund of Saudi Arabia.
But who has signed who in the high-profile name game, and who could they move for? We took a look at every club.
📰 Table Of Contents
Abha
Only a recent addition to the Saudi top flight, they are yet to make a major signing this summer.
Al-Ahli
Though they don’t currently have a manager, Al-Ahli have still been one of the busier sides in the Saudi league so far this summer. They have added Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to their ranks, as well as ex-Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino, who was available on a free transfer.
Al-Ettifaq
Now managed by Steven Gerrard, it is thought that their spending will kickstart under the former Liverpool legend, and they have earmarked current Liverpool legend Jordan Henderson as their first signing.
Still negotiating with Liverpool for the fee, it is believed that the Englishman has already accepted personal terms over a move to Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, they have also held early talks with West Ham striker Michail Antonio.
Al-Fateh
Yet to spend a penny this summer.
Al-Fayha
One of the smallest clubs in the league, Al-Fayha are yet to spend any money on new signings this summer.
Al-Hazem
Freshly promoted, they have signed 7 new players as free agents, but are yet to dip into the European market.
Al-Hilal
The busiest club so far this summer, Al-Hilal are the most successful club in the division’s history but finished a disappointing 3rd last season, 13 points off top spot.
To rectify that, they have signed Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly, along with star midfield duo Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Ruben Neves, a pairing that would not look out of place in a Champions League knockout game.
They have also tried to add Lionel Messi and Romelu Lukaku to their ranks, but failed on both counts. They have since tabled an offer for Fulham’s Alexandr Mitrovic, who is keen to join.
Ruben Neves celebrates scoring his goal during the Premier League match at Brentford Community Stadium, London.
Picture Credit : © Mark Pain / Alamy Live News (Alamy Stock Photo)
Al-Ittihad
Last season’s champions have also been busy this summer. Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante have both joined on free transfers, while Celtic’s Jota has also been recruited. There are no plans to stop there, and it is understood that they are closing in on a deal for Liverpool midfielder Fabinho too, in a move worth around £40m.
Al-Nassr
The side that started it all by signing Cristiano Ronaldo in January, Al Nassr have been relatively quiet so far this summer. Banned from registering new signings over money they owe to Leicester City, so far their only additions have been former RC Lens midfielder Seko Fofana and Inter Milan’s Marco Brozovic.
They had been in talks with Hakim Ziyech, but the Moroccan failed a medical and remains a Chelsea player for now, while they have also begun talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a move for Moussa Diaby.
Al-Okhdood
No major names in their squad as of yet.
Al-Raed
Haven’t signed anyone of note yet.
Al-Riyadh
Like Al-Raed, they are yet to truly make an impression on the market.
Al-Shabab
Another club that have done little to change the status quo in the transfer market.
Al-Taawoun
Yet to add anyone to their ranks.
Al-Tai
Yet to win a major trophy during their existence and haven’t signed anyone of note in a bid to change that
Al-Wehda
They are yet to bring any fresh faces this summer.
Damac
Haven’t bought anyone this summer.
Khaleej
They have added six free transfers to their ranks, but as of yet, no one of note.
