LIONEL Messi, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as well as other high-profile Europe-based stars in their 30s could be playing in the Saudi Arabia Pro League next season.
The Saudi Arabian government is keen to turn the country’s top flight into the Mecca of big-name players after the acquisition of five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo by Al Nassr in a reported $200 million deal in January.
The Times claimed recently that the Saudi government is willing to commit over $1 billion into the project, with some rumours claiming the funds could be as ridiculously high as a staggering $20bn.
Although his father and representative Jorge denied a deal had been agreed after AFP broke the news of a $400m Al Hilal move last month, Messi is still being heavily linked with the Saudi giants.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported today that a two-year deal of more than €400m per season in wages and commercial deals is awaiting Messi’s signature.
Seven-time Ballon d’Or winner and Argentina’s World Cup-winning captain Messi, 35, has left Paris Saint-Germain after two years at the French champions and is reportedly set to choose between his former club Barcelona and Al Hilal.
Benzema, who has just left Real Madrid as a free agent after 14 trophy-laden years, is expected to join champions Al Ittihad.
Reports today claimed the 35-year-old France striker’s contract at Al Ittihad has been agreed and will be valid until June 2025 with an option for a further year.
His salary and earnings from commercial deals could reach €200m, according to the usually reliable Romano.
Chelsea pair Kante and Aubameyang are also being tempted by mouthwatering offers from the oil-rich kingdom.
Reports today have claimed that officials from Saudi Arabian clubs Al Ittihad and Al Nassr were in London to present an official proposal to France midfielder Kante.
With image rights and commercial deals included, the 32-year-old could earn as much as €100m in one year if he decides to accept the Saudi offer.
On Aubameyang’s part, representatives of Al Ahli and Al Shabab have reportedly approached the 33-year-old Gabon striker to discuss a potential move after he rejected the American Major League Soccer side LAFC in February.
