Despite their massive spending spree last year, Saudi Arabia’s Pro League clubs show no signs of slowing down in their efforts to attract some of the biggest names in football.
Having already succeeded in bringing star players like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante from Europe to the Middle East, Saudi clubs are continuing their aggressive recruitment campaign.
According to recent reports, they have now set their sights on one of the Premier League’s most recognized and popular players, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford.
A recent report from Fichajes suggests that Rashford has emerged as a top target for Saudi clubs, who are reportedly willing to offer as much as £86 million (€100 million) to secure the England winger’s services.
Although Manchester United is gearing up for the new season, with their opening match against Fulham just around the corner, there are rumors that the club is open to considering offers for the 26-year-old. This is despite Rashford being a homegrown talent who has spent his entire career at Old Trafford.
The prospect of such a significant transfer fee could indeed trigger negotiations, particularly given the recent struggles in Rashford’s form. Over the last season, Rashford managed to score only eight goals in 43 appearances across all competitions.
This dip in performance has sparked debates among fans and pundits alike about whether a change of scenery might be beneficial for his career. Some argue that his long tenure at United, spanning over 400 senior games, might have led to a stagnation in his development, and that a fresh challenge could reignite his spark.
However, the idea of moving to Saudi Arabia might not be seen as a conventional career challenge, especially for a player like Rashford, who is still in his prime.
Yet, the financial incentives offered by the Pro League could be a compelling factor. Saudi clubs are known for their lucrative contracts, which have been a key draw for several high-profile players in recent years.
To lure Rashford, one of United’s highest earners with a weekly wage of £300,000, any Saudi club would likely need to offer an astronomical deal, possibly making him one of the highest-paid footballers in the world.
The notion of Rashford leaving United, particularly under such circumstances, is a staggering thought, especially considering his recent struggles. With four years remaining on his current contract, the decision ultimately rests with Manchester United and Rashford himself.
However, if the financial offer is as substantial as reported, it could be a tempting prospect for both the player and the club.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether Saudi Arabia will succeed in adding yet another European star to their growing roster, or if Rashford will choose to stay and fight to regain his form at Old Trafford.
