This week, the Premier League could still lose more star players to the Saudi Pro League. That’s because the Saudi Arabian transfer window closes on September 7. Let’s look at the high-profile Premier League players who could head to the Middle East before Friday’s expiration.
Mohamed Salah, Liverpool
Despite Liverpool’s firm stance on keeping their star player, persistent rumors continue to swirl around Mohamed Salah’s potential record-breaking transfer to Saudi champions Al-Ittihad.
Liverpool turned down a previous $189 million bid. Still, reports indicate that Al-Ittihad is gearing up to make a jaw-dropping $252 million offer that could put Liverpool’s loyalty to Salah to the test. Securing Salah wouldn’t just have financial implications and strategically amplify the Saudi Pro League’s prominence across the Arab community.
The Reds remained caught in a difficult predicament: letting go of their Egyptian ace could endanger their Premier League title ambitions and leave them without a ready substitute.
Gabriel Magalhaes, Arsenal
The Saudis are testing Arsenal’s resolve over an offer for Brazilian center-back Gabriel Magalhaes. Saudi Arabian champions Al-Ittihad continue to lure the player with a lucrative $126 million offer. However, the defender seemingly reversed course in the past week, and Arteta listened. Magalhaes started in Arsenal’s victory over Manchester United last weekend.
Gunners’ fans will hope Magalhaes is a man of his word and remains in North London for the rest of the season.
David de Gea, Free Agent
Manchester United’s long-time #1 goalie is now a free agent and, shockingly, still on the market. At 32 years old, David de Gea has plenty of gas in the tank to prove his worth.
The goalkeeper recently shared an Instagram video reminding teams of his diligence and shot-stop abilities. Saudi clubs Al Nassr and Al Ittihad need a class goalkeeper, with de Gea set to snatch a lucrative offer to reward his patience.
Jadon Sancho, Machester United
Once a highly-rated winger with huge expectations, Jadon Sancho quickly fell down the ranks on Erik ten Hag’s team. The 23-year-old has not started a game for Manchester United this 23/24 Premier League season.
With three years left on his contract, the Saudis could show some serious intent by successfully wooing a young player of Sancho’s quality to the Middle East.
Hugo Lloris, Tottenham
With Hugo Lloris no longer number one at Tottenham, the Frenchman could be attracted to opportunities in Saudi Arabia.
At 36, the 2018 World Cup winner and France’s most-capped player still has plenty to contribute between the sticks. However, he’ll be in contention with other free-agent goalies like David de Gea, also on Ronaldo-led Al Nassr’s shopping list.
Premier League players that could be headed to Saudi Arabia this week
Premier League Team | Players Saudi Pro League Could Target |
---|---|
Aston Villa | Coutinho |
Arsenal | Gabriel, Cedric, Partey, Pepe, Smith Rowe |
Chelsea | Chalobah, Cucurella |
Liverpool | Adrian, Gomez, Salah, Thiago |
Manchester City | Phillips |
Manchester United | Maguire, Van de Beek, McTominay, Sancho, Martial |
Newcastle | Karius, Lascelles |
Tottenham | Lloris |
Free Agents | de Gea, Hazard, Lingard |
Photo: Instagram/mosalah