Man Utd's record signing tipped for Saudi Pro League transfer

9 Sept 2023 15:24 BST
3 min read

A silhouette of Antonio Mateu Lahoz with the Saudi Arabian flag — © ProShots

The Saudi transfer window has closed for the summer, much to the relief of teams in Europe, but the Pro League are still targeting some of the world’s biggest names, with ex-Manchester United star Paul Pogba being touted as the next player to make the move.

Saudi teams spent nearly €1 billion on the likes of Neymar, Ruben Neves and Sadio Mane this summer as the Gulf state looked to enhance the reputation of the Pro League.

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More players are expected to make the lucrative move in the coming years, with Saudi Arabia’s investment fund willing to continue funding the league, with Pogba among many stars likely to be eyed.

DONE DEALS: All the transfers from Saudi Pro League sides this summer

The Frenchman was United’s record signing when he joined in 2016 for €105m but his time at Old Trafford was underwhelming, and the disappointment continued when the 30-year-old moved to Juventus last summer.

Transfer market intermediary Gad Cohen, who engineered Marcelo Brozovic’s €18m move from Inter to Al-Nassr this summer, spoke to Italian outlet tuttomercato and hinted that Pogba could be considered for an approach if he recaptures his best form at Juve.

“The profile of the Frenchman is certainly interesting. So why not, he could be one of the future stars of the championship. But he will have to demonstrate his qualities again this season at Juventus, showing the world that he is a top player.”

Pogba and Romelu Lukaku next in line for Saudi Arabia

Pogba signed a four-year deal with Juventus last summer after leaving United on a free transfer but the midfielder made just six league appearances due to injury.

Another ex-United star who was subject of an approach from Saudi Arabia this summer was Romelu Lukaku, however the Belgian turned down a move from Chelsea and ended up joining Roma on loan.

Lukaku would be allowed to leave Chelsea permanently for €40m and the striker could be open to a move to the Saudi Pro League next summer if Roma do not take up the option in his loan.

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"Sometimes there are situations that you don't fully understand,” Cohen said. “I think Romelu is happy at Roma now, but never say never. Nobody knows the future. And if I get a call from him, we'll see how to act."