Al Hilal Sign Renan Lodi as Neymar’s Replacement For 6 Months From Olympique Marseille In a $22M Deal: Reports

Saudi side Al Hilal is taking no expenses for their title aspirations this season. Despite having one of the best rosters in the league, the SPL table-toppers continue to improve their squad. While the side suffered a massive setback last year after losing Neymar Jr to injury, it seems the team has wasted no time finding his replacement. Al Hilal has reportedly secured a $22 million deal with French side Olympique Marseille, which will see their left-back Renan Lodi join the Middle Eastern outfit.

Lodi’s signing comes as a big surprise, considering he does not play the same position as Neymar. However, Al Hilal had made it clear that the side was scouting for an overseas defender. Lodi’s addition will surely boost Al Hilal’s defense, as he becomes an efficient player from now on.

Al Hilal splurge $22 million to get to secure Renan Lodi’s signatures

SPL table-toppers seem ready to get back to the field after the mid-season break. The side has used the break as an opportunity to fill the existing gaps in their team. With Neymar Jr injured and out for the remaining half of the season, the side has used his vacant overseas spot by signing Brazilian left-back Renan Lodi to bolster their defense.

Prominent transfer journalist Rudy Galetti broke the deal on X, stating, “Renan Lodi is on his way to Al Hilal. It’s a DONE DEAL. 💰 The Brazilian left-back will join the Saudi Arabian club from OM for a fee set at around $22m.”

Lodi’s arrival is a tremendous plus point for Al Hilal as the player perfectly suits their existing system. With the side expecting their defenders to move into attacking spaces, the Brazilian left-back perfectly fits the bill. While the side might have to offload one of their overseas stars next season following Neymar’s return, Lodi’s imminent arrival will help the team in the long run.

READ MORE: Saudi Arabia Set to Witness Injured Neymar & Lionel Messi’s Reunion as Inter Miami Take On Al Hilal in Riyadh

FIFA shells out $8.2 million in compensation following Neymar’s injury

Soccer governing body FIFA was forced to compensate Saudi side Al Hilal earlier this year after Neymar ruptured his ACL during Brazil’s clash against Uruguay. Based on their existing laws, FIFA is responsible for compensating the parent club if any player injures himself while on international duty.

According to a report from media outlet NewsNow4Sports, “Al Hilal Club received 7.5 million euros from FIFA as compensation for Neymar’s ligament injury during his FIFA days.”

While there have been multiple reports surrounding Neymar’s return in June, the player is unlikely to be available for his national side for the Copa America 2024. The Brazilian medical staff do not want to put the player at risk, and a rushed return could put the player at risk of a recurring injury.

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