Saudi Arabia is making preparations to offer very attractive deals to semi-pro footballers, potentially persuading them to play in the fourth division. This comes after a fairly successful period which has seen several European footballing superstars make the Middle Eastern kingdom their professional home.
Notably, a mega-money offer for Cristiano Ronaldo in January 2023 saw the legendary Portuguese striker decide to leave Europe entirely. He joined up with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, and by the summer of 2023, many successful players in Europe turned to Saudi Arabia.
This included Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema, who left Real Madrid and joined Al-Ittihad. Others like Riyad Mahrez, who won the continental treble with Manchester City, made the switch to Al-Ahli. Global superstars like Neymar (Al-Hilal) also turned to the Arab country, as it became a hotspot for footballers in Europe.
Now, a report from Marca (via Sport Bible) has revealed that the Middle Eastern kingdom is planning further investments across its football tiers. While the top tier can boast of its fair share of superstardom, they are working on improving demand for semi-professional footballers.
While the big stars are raking in high-end six figures every week, semi-pro players who can join their fourth division will get $20,000 per season at best. While this might seem small, especially with the lower end averaging $10,000, they will get a number of perks. These include a house, a car, their visa, return flight tickets, and a big boost in their earnings if they help their teams get promotions.
Saudi Arabia working to sign Ederson
While work may be underway for their lower division, Saudi Arabia has not set aside plans within their Pro League. They have continued to make moves, with the latest being Ederson, who plays for Manchester City in the Premier League.
According to a report from Nicolo Schira (via Football Transfers), Al-Ittihad have been in contact with the goalkeeper, who has accepted a deal worth €25 million. Now, though, they have to go through the hurdle of getting Man City to sell.
The Cityzens are not too keen on letting their Brazilian shot-stopper leave the club, despite his interest in moving to Saudi Arabia. The two clubs are yet to agree on a fee, with City expecting to receive upwards of €50 million if they are to let him go.
