Which players have signed for the Saudi Pro League?
Karim Benzema greets Al Ittihad fans during his presentation ceremony at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on Thursday, June 8, 2023 [AP Photo]It all started with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese football superstar moved to Al Nassr from Manchester United in January, setting off what appears to be a trend. Several big-name players have since followed on his footsteps, ditching top European leagues for the sunnier – and wealthier – climes of the Saudi Pro League. Here are some of the most eye-catching deals by clubs in the kingdom during this transfer window: Karim Benzema: Real Madrid to Al Ittihad The 35-year-old left Real Madrid in the summer on a free transfer as the club’s second-highest goalscorer and top assist provider. The five-time UEFA Champions League winner and current Ballon d’Or holder signed a two-year contract, with the option to extend for a third, with the reigning Saudi Pro League champions that is reportedly worth $213m per season. N’Golo K
It all started with Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Portuguese football superstar moved to Al Nassr from Manchester United in January, setting off what appears to be a trend.
Several big-name players have since followed on his footsteps, ditching top European leagues for the sunnier – and wealthier – climes of the Saudi Pro League.
Here are some of the most eye-catching deals by clubs in the kingdom during this transfer window:
Karim Benzema: Real Madrid to Al Ittihad
The 35-year-old left Real Madrid in the summer on a free transfer as the club’s second-highest goalscorer and top assist provider.
The five-time UEFA Champions League winner and current Ballon d’Or holder signed a two-year contract, with the option to extend for a third, with the reigning Saudi Pro League champions that is reportedly worth $213m per season.
N’Golo Kante: Chelsea to Al Ittihad
Kante will join his compatriot Benzema in Jeddah where reports suggest he will earn $109.8m per year after joining Al Ittihad for three years on a free transfer.
The 32-year-old picked up both Premier League and Champions League trophies during his seven-season stint with Chelsea.
Jota: Celtic to Al Ittihad
The 24-year-old winger from Portugal has been a standout player over two seasons for the Scottish giants.
He joined Al Ittihad on a three-year contract with Scottish media reporting the transfer fee was $31.73m.
Ruben Neves: Wolverhampton Wanderers to Al Hilal
The Portuguese midfielder, at 26 years old, is one of the first established names to have moved to the Saudi league at the prime of their career.
He joined Al Hilal on a three-year deal for a reported $60m.
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