Saudi clubs continue their raid on English football with another signing

Dubai: Saudi Arabia's Pro League continues its expansion into English football, as evidenced by the recent signing of highly-rated Manchester City midfielder Tijjani Reijnders by Al Qadsiah. This marks the league's 21st player secured from Premier League clubs since 2023. The transformation of Saudi Arabia's football scene has been driven by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the country's oil wealth, as part of Vision 2030 to diversify its economy and boost global standing.

Saudi clubs now possess 75 percent stakes in major clubs such as Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad and Al-Ahli, enabling an unprecedented spending spree. The signing of Cristiano Ronaldo for Al-Nassr in 2022 marked the beginning of this trend, drawing global stars to the league. The financial allure, including lucrative salaries, bonuses, and lifestyle benefits, has proved irresistible to many footballers.

With vast salaries, tax advantages, and an increasingly competitive league, the Pro League has become an attractive destination for established and young players alike. The Saudi Pro League now appears poised for long-term success, with clubs actively targeting prime-age players who still have years of top-tier football ahead of them.

This summer, Crysencio Summerville, 24, moved from West Ham to Al-Hilal for up to £60 million, while Reijnders, 28, is set to join Al-Qadsiah from Manchester City for approximately £52 million. Both transfers highlight the Saudi clubs' financial might and ambition to lure top talent away from English football at the peak of their careers.