Saudi Chief Agrees to Pump $500 Million For Erling Haaland as a Part of a Potential Billion-Dollar Plan

The Saudi Pro League has changed the face of soccer in the Gulf. Targeting top talents, even the ones in the twilight of their careers, the clubs have brought in the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mane. They, however, still look hungry for more. In a recent conversation, an official from the league expressed their willingness to spend $500 million on Manchester City’s Erling Haaland.

With Cristiano Ronaldo‘s arrival, the league has taken off in all aspects, like viewership, revenue, and fan base. Be that as it may, one of the most important reasons for this is their spending power, which is bolstered by the PIF and it’s practically bottomless pocket.

Saudi Arabia can shell out half a billion for Erling Haaland

The exodus started off with Al Nassr taking advantage of Manchester United’s spat with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Riyad-based club, with the assistance of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and other entities, brought Ronaldo, tying him to a $200 million contract. But now, according to reports, the league’s chairman has agreed that it could be wise to spend another $500 million on Erling Haaland.

Saad Allazeez was asked a question about whether, out of a budget of $1 billion, buying three players, including $500 million for Erling Haaland, would be better than buying eight ‘normal’ players. The chairman resoundingly agreed to the idea and said, ‘Yes.’

The league is determined to develop itself by buying high-profile players, irrespective of the cost. Although the question was hypothetical, it would not be surprising if the Ballon d’Or runner-up, Erling Haaland, eventually ends up in the Gulf.

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In the last window, the league also tried to gain the services of Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi. However, both superstars turned down their billion-dollar deals due to a lack of interest. And yet, the top clubs spent close to a billion dollars on players combined.

Saudi’s incredible spending last season

The Saudi Pro League spent approximately a billion dollars in the last transfer window. The marquee signing was Neymar, who moved from Paris Saint-Germain to Al Hial for $99 million for 2 years. Additionally, players like Rueben Neves, Sergej Milenkovic Savic, Otavio from Portugal, and the Brazilian Malcolm were added to the list.

The league now eyes the winter window, which starts on January 1. Again, big players like Mohammed Salah have kindled the interest of the Arabian merchants. Even Jadon Sancho and Richarlison seem to be in the plans. However, Haaland’s case looks unlikely as the striker is tied down by his contract with Manchester City till 2027. But if the Gulf could show grit and determination, who knows what could happen?

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