Al Hilal Eye LAFC’s Denis Bouanga as Neymar’s Replacement: Reports

The Saudi Pro League has once again rolled its sleeves up for the January transfer market. This time, Al Hilal is in a much better position than last summer, when they were adapting to the revolution pioneered by Al Nassr. In a more calculated move, Neymar‘s employers are seeking a replacement for him from the MLS namely Denis Bouanga. Neymar, despite being one of Al Hilal’s most expensive signings, has failed to make any mark yet. With him almost missing the entire season, it could have made the Riyadh team feel doomed.

Al Hilal, in a surprise move, is looking toward the MLS player. Recent talks suggested the 18-time Saudi Champions were contemplating a potential addition to the backline. However, the club’s attention now seems to have shifted to LAFC winger Denis Bouanga, as per Le10Sport. It was many months ago when Cristiano Ronaldo said that the Saudi Pro League was better than the MLS. And in what seems to be a competition between French teams and the SPL, Bougana is expected to choose the Saudi League.

Earlier reports suggested that OGC Nice was targeting the player. The French club, which is having an excellent season, was ready to offer $10 million for the Gabonese international, who has also been in scintillating form. On the other hand, the 29-year-old has already made a mark for himself in the MLS.

The player scored 24 goals in the last MLS season, winning the Golden Boot for 2023, apart from being the top scorer in the CONCACAF Champions League with 7 goals. He also helped LAFC win the MLS Cup title in 2022, scoring two goals in the playoffs despite his late arrival for the club. But this time he’s looking for a different challenge, and it seems he could have gotten it with Neymar’s absence.

Neymar’s absence not hurting Al Hilal on the pitch

Neymar’s absence due to an ACL injury seems to have had close to no impact on Al Hilal on the field. With the funds from the PIF for transfers, the club was able to make smart moves by bringing in Aleksandar Mitrovic and Malcom, who have scored 17 and 9 goals already in the league, respectively. The team has been known for their superior attack this season, scoring a majestic 59 goals in just 19 games.

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Neymar, on the other hand, is expected to be back by August and will miss the upcoming Copa America. Even though Brazil may suffer with certain options, Al Hilal is growing from strength to strength, now with the possible addition of the LAFC star. Do you think this transfer will pan out? Let us know in the comments below.

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