Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia has shocked the world of soccer. After his contract was terminated by Manchester United, the striker agreed on a world-record contract to join Al Nassr. Thus, making him the current highest-paid athlete.
Saudi clubs are trying to increase the popularity and spectatorship of the league by making quality additions to their side. Hence, Ronaldo’s transfer to the Middle East is now inspiring other teams in the Saudi Arabian League to bring in foreign players.
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Just a few days ago, reports emerged that Al Nassr’s rivals, Al Hilal, were also eyeing a swoop for Lionel Messi. They were ready to offer a $350 million-a-year deal to the World Cup winner.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s rivals eyeing LAFC superstar
Following a similar trend, Cristiano Ronaldo’s club rival, Al-Ahli, is also following in the footsteps of Al-Hilal. The Saudi Arabian side is interested in signing LAFC star Chicho Arango. They reportedly made a $3 million bid for the 27-year-old.
However, LAFC have rejected their offer and are asking for $6.5 million at least. Al-Ahli have yet to respond to their offer, which they can easily match.
Sources: LAFC have rejected a bid from Saudi club Al-Ahli for star forward Chicho Arango.
Al-Ahli's bid was around $3m. LAFC asking for more than $6.5m. We'll see if Al-Ahli comes back with another bid. Arango wants a new contract.
Arango, 27, has 30g/7a in 3,753 mins with LAFC pic.twitter.com/5hmttTkG37
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) January 14, 2023
Moreover, reports suggest that Arango is not considering the offer. Sources reveal that the Columbian is adamant about staying at the club and wants a new contract.
Chicho joined the Hollywood club back in 2021 and since then has made 58 appearances and had 35 goals and 6 goal contributions. In the 2022 season, he scored 18 goals and had 4 assists in 37 matches.
He is an integral part of Steve Cherundolo’s side and may likely negotiate a deal for the striker. But for now, the club has rejected the offer.
LAFC transfer plans
LAFC are quite active in the transfer market with many arrivals and in the club. The Black and Gold recently announced the departure of Méndez, who joined the Brazilian side of Sao Paulo.
The club also lost Gareth Bale, as the former Madrid star announced his retirement from soccer. However, they recently sanctioned the signing of veteran goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic. The 38-year-old penned a one-year-deal, with an option to extend.
Eldin Jakupović is Black & Gold.
📝 #LAFC signs goalkeeper Eldin Jakupović to a one-year deal with a club option for 2024.
— LAFC (@LAFC) January 9, 2023
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The former Toffees man will cover for the injured Maxime Crepeau, who is set to miss half of the season after he broke his leg in November’s MLS Cup.
LAFC are eyeing a win for this year as well and are optimistic to bolster their squad ahead of 2023 campaign. Moreover, they are yet to replace Gareth Bale, who recently hung his boots and have minimum depth in their attack.
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