The upcoming summer transfer window is set to see renewed efforts by Saudi Arabian clubs to lure top players from the English Premier League. Backed by substantial funding from their country’s sovereign wealth fund, Saudi clubs made a number of high-profile signings last year, including Sadio Mane, Aymeric Laporte, Fabinho and Neymar.
Despite a failed £150 million bid for Mohamed Salah, the Saudis did manage to sign Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, though his spell at Al-Ettifaq was short-lived as he terminated his contract in January.
Undeterred by Henderson’s struggles, Saudi clubs have now drawn up a fresh list of Premier League targets, with Manchester United players seemingly a prime focus. Up to 10 major signings are expected from Saudi sides this summer.
Topping their wishlist is United midfielder Casemiro, who has endured a difficult end to the season. Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has urged the Brazilian to step away from the top level, and he may get that chance with Al-Nassr, who are keen to reunite him with former teammates Mane and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Casemiro’s representatives have already held talks with several Saudi clubs, and United would be willing to sell, though they do not want to force the player out. The fee United would demand remains to be seen, but they are keen to reach an agreement early in the window.
United captain Bruno Fernandes is also a target, though a deal is seen as less likely, with the Portuguese international having two years left on his contract. Saudi champions Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad are both interested in the attacking midfielder.
Goalkeepers Alisson of Liverpool and Ederson of Manchester City are also considered targets, while Saudi sides are set to renew their interest in Salah as he enters the final year of his Liverpool contract. A move for Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne is also being explored.
Despite the expectation of less spending than the over £750 million splashed out last year, the Saudi Pro League is keen to use the transfer window as an opportunity to raise its profile. The league has also increased its quotas for foreign players to aid clubs in their recruitment efforts.