The emergence of Saudi Arabian money has greatly disrupted European football. Over the past year and a half, a host of top-quality footballers have made the jump to Saudi Arabia, in the lure of more lucrative contracts.
While the majority of the departed players were well into their 30s, there is a worrying trend of European stars moving to the Middle East, even at their peak.
Barcelona are one of the few clubs, that have so far been resistant to losing players to Saudi Arabia. But as we approach the coming summer, the Catalans might be running the risk of losing multiple star players.
Raphinha: A target for Saudi clubs this summer
According to Mundo Deportivo, one of the players in danger of moving to Saudi Arabia is Raphinha.
Saudi clubs were keen on signing the Barcelona forward last summer and they are more than likely to come back for him in the market.
Raphinha is a target for Saudi Arabia (Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images)
The report suggests Barcelona are counting on the services of Raphinha for the season ahead. But they would understand if the attacker wants to leave, taking into account the explosion of Lamine Yamal.
Barça are aware that Raphinha had once turned down a €20 million per year offer from Saudi Arabia. Whether or not he will once again repel these offers this summer remains to be seen.
Lewandowski & Ter Stegen also on the radar
Two other Barcelona players targeted by Saudi Arabia this summer are Robert Lewandowski and Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Ter Stegen has been in the news recently following a ‘lucrative’ offer from Saudi Arabia. It remains uncertain whether or not the German will want to make the jump.
However, he does have a contract until 2028 and is one of the most important players in the Barcelona setup. A lot may depend on the new coach.
As for Lewandowski, he is already in the twilight of his career and it won’t be surprising to see him make the move to Saudi Arabia.
However, the report suggests that the player is…
Author : Connell Edgar-Jones
Publish date : 2024-02-28 07:42:31
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.The post Three Barcelona stars on the radars of Saudi Arabian clubs ahead of the summer window first appeared on Soccer News.
Author : soccernews
Publish date : 2024-02-28 07:47:57
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.