The Saudi Pro League emerged as one of the biggest transfer destinations this summer. Top teams in the league shelled out massive cash to secure the signings of some of the biggest names in the game. While the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar Jr. have been raking in the cash, a lot of players in the League are still earning their old salaries. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr has been trying to tie down one of their players to a new deal this season, however, the player has declined to sign the club’s deal unless he gets a massive boost.

Ronaldo’s teammate who makes less than $1 million per year has been offered a new $2.1 million contract by Al Nassr.

Sultan Al-Ghannam rejects new deal with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr

Al Nassr, right back Sultan Al-Ghannam, is a key player for Al Nassr. The Saudi Arabian defender has emerged as one of the top names in the country in recent years. However, the player is said to be unhappy with his wages at Al Nassr and is looking for a massive appraisal.

While Al Nassr has offered Al-Ghannam a three-year deal worth $2.1 million, the player has quickly rejected the deal, demanding $8 million for his services. While Al Nassr is desperately trying to tie down the right back to a new deal, the team is unlikely to settle down at his demands.

Also Read: Why Al Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo Has Become More ‘Humanized’ Despite Living in Saudi Arabia

Al-Ghannam has been in great form for the Riyadh outfit this season. In his six appearances in the Saudi Pro League, the right-back has been rock solid in defense while netting a goal and making three assists. While Saudi Arabian clubs have dished out massive paychecks for European superstars, it is disheartening to see homegrown talent not even earn a fraction of the amount.

Saudi Pro League neglect homegrown talent for superstars

The Saudi Pro League has put in its entire focus in signing some of the biggest superstars in the game. Portuguese talisman Cristiano Ronaldo penned a massive $500 million plus deal last year that runs for two seasons. Similarly, Al Hilal’s Neymar Jr signed a massive $400 million plus deal this summer that sees him take home over $200 million per year.

However, it seems like none of the Saudi Arabian outfits have been actively trying to foster talent in the country. Despite paying the overseas talent ludicrous wages, Saudi Arabian players have mostly been working at their old deals. While big European names average a wage of $40 million per year, domestic players have been averaging below a million.

WATCH THIS STORY- Meet the Legendary Tennis Player Who is 3x Richer than Cristiano Ronaldo

Saudi Arabia’s tactics of signing some of the biggest superstars have paid off in the short term, but the teams will have to start investing in local talent if they wish to keep the league growing in the coming years.