The summer transfer window is shaping up to see another wave of spending from Saudi Pro League clubs, with Barcelona’s Raphinha and Tottenham’s Richarlison emerging as prime targets.
Raphinha, who has long been linked with a move away from Barcelona amid the club’s financial struggles, is reportedly on the radar of Saudi clubs due to their financial capacity to afford his hefty €5.5 million (£4.7m/$6.0m) annual wages. The quartet of Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli, all owned by the Public Investment Fund, are named as potential suitors for the Brazilian winger, according to Sport.
Meanwhile, Tottenham striker Richarlison is also a sought-after target for Pro League clubs, with Al-Ittihad reportedly leading the race for his signature. Despite interest during the January window, no bids materialized, but it’s anticipated that spending in the Gulf state will increase dramatically in the upcoming transfer window, as reported by The Telegraph. However, Spurs’ £60m ($76m) valuation of Richarlison could pose a significant obstacle to any potential deal.
Saudi clubs are not limiting their targets to Raphinha and Richarlison alone. With increased places for foreign players, they are eyeing veteran Premier League talents like Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne. These marquee names signify the ambitious spending plans of the Saudi clubs, aiming to replicate the high-profile signings of Neymar and Karim Benzema from the previous year.
Despite the interest from Saudi clubs, Raphinha has consistently expressed his desire to remain at Barcelona and compete in the Champions League. On the other hand, Richarlison is currently sidelined with a knee injury but remains a coveted asset for potential suitors, pending his recovery and future availability for transfer negotiations.