In recent years, the Saudi Pro League has shaken up the global football scene. With offers too lucrative to ignore, several European stars — from Cristiano Ronaldo to Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté — have swapped Champions League nights for life in the Middle East.
Backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), the league continues to lure top talent, and its growth has drawn increasing attention from fans and sportsbook betting enthusiasts alike.
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As the summer transfer window heats up, here are nine high-profile players who could still be tempted to take the Saudi leap.
Lionel Messi
Regarded by many as the greatest to ever play the game, Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, but not without serious consideration of a move to Saudi Arabia. At the time, he described both MLS and Saudi football as viable options — and according to reports from TEAMtalk, Saudi officials haven’t given up.
PIF is said to have reopened talks in early June to revisit Messi’s stance on a possible switch. While he’s thriving in the U.S., a surprise move to the Gulf isn’t entirely off the table. Watch this space.
Andre Onana
After a turbulent spell at Manchester United, marked by high-profile errors and inconsistency, Onana’s time at Old Trafford could be drawing to a close.
Signed for close to £50 million, the Cameroonian keeper is unlikely to command a similar fee within Europe. However, the Saudi Pro League — with its less intense spotlight and deeper pockets — might offer the perfect escape. United would likely welcome the chance to recoup funds and cut their wage bill.
Casemiro
Despite a few throwback performances reminding fans of his Real Madrid prime, Casemiro’s influence at United has faded. At 33, his age and hefty wage (reportedly over £300,000 a week) limit the number of viable European suitors.
Saudi Arabia, however, remains a strong possibility. The financial package would be fitting for a player of his pedigree, and the league has a history of attracting aging stars seeking one last payday.
Son Heung-min
For years, Son was adamant about staying at Tottenham in search of silverware. After finally lifting the Europa League last season, his stance appears to have softened.
Now, reports suggest he may be open to a move — and the Saudi Pro League is paying attention. His immense popularity across Asia could be a marketing goldmine for the league. A move might be closer than many think.
Ederson
Having spent nearly a decade as Manchester City’s undisputed No. 1, Ederson may now be ready for a new challenge. With City having won every possible trophy during his tenure, a move to Saudi Arabia — and the massive payday it promises — could be appealing.
According to TEAMtalk, City are aware of the interest and are open to selling him before his contract enters its final year. If the timing aligns, Ederson could follow several of his former teammates out the door.
Kyle Walker
Walker’s exit from Manchester City seems inevitable. After spending the last season on loan at AC Milan and being excluded from City’s Club World Cup squad, the writing is on the wall.
A permanent move within Europe would likely require another loan, but Saudi Arabia’s financial firepower makes a full transfer feasible. Walker himself hasn’t dismissed the idea, stating, “The money they’re offering is obviously a huge factor.”
Emi Martinez
Martinez’s tearful goodbye to Aston Villa fans on the final day of the season strongly hinted at an impending departure. With Villa needing to balance the books for financial compliance, he’s one of their most valuable assets.
Although Manchester United are reportedly interested in a £40 million deal, Saudi clubs have the upper hand in terms of resources. While Martinez is believed to prefer staying in Europe, market dynamics could force his hand.
Luis Díaz
Frustration has reportedly grown behind the scenes for Díaz, especially after learning new signing Florian Wirtz is set to earn over four times his weekly wage of £55,000.
Though the Colombian winger has been linked to Barcelona, their ongoing financial limitations make that move tricky. If no European giant can afford him, Saudi clubs — particularly Al-Nassr, who are said to have sought PIF approval to fund a deal — might become serious contenders.
Marc-André ter Stegen
Barcelona’s long-time goalkeeper is rumored to be eyeing an exit. The Saudi league has taken note, with interest building over the past few months.
If the German does push for a move, Saudi Arabia could offer him a new chapter. However, with speculation suggesting Manchester City might target him should Ederson leave, a high-stakes battle could unfold between Europe and the Gulf.
Final Thoughts
With deep pockets and an expanding global profile, the Saudi Pro League isn’t done yet. As Europe grapples with financial constraints, don’t be surprised if more stars make the leap — and the summer transfer window is just getting started.