Saudi league transfer window: From mega signings to rumoured moves, what you need to know

The summer transfer window is undoubtedly the most exciting time for football fans as clubs across the world add new talents to their squads. What's even more exciting is the last few days and hours of the window when the most likely deals often collapse and the most unlikely ones materialise.

The summer 2023 window has witnessed some extraordinary transfers, with the cash-rich Saudi Pro League having emerged as a one-stop destination for several European superstars.

English Premier League is the biggest spender in this summer transfer window that has seen $8.2 billion spent so far on 1,617 players globally, according to media reports. EPL clubs spent $2.5 billion on transfers, followed by Saudi Pro League — which has spent $900 million.

Who all will play in Saudi?

In December last year, Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo shocked the world with his move to Al-Nassr. A few games into the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo found his rhythm. In one his post-match interviews, he said, "This league will soon be among the top five leagues in the world".

Fast forward to July-August 2023, top Saudi sides laid out their plans to recruit the best football talent from Europe. And it didn't take too long before Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Neymar Jr followed in the footsteps of Ronaldo.

Al Ittihad signed the 2022 Ballon d'Or Karim Benzema, an indication of things to come. Soon, N’Golo Kante joined his former French teammate Al Ittihad, which also signed Fabinho from Liverpool.

Here are some other big signings:

Who could be next?

Since the Saudi Pro League transfer window remains open until the third week of September, several players, including the ones out of contract, are expected to join. Former Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos and ex-Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea haven't found a club in Europe yet and may head to the Saudi league.

However, the biggest name doing the rounds is Liverpool forward Mo Salah. Liverpool remain optimistic that their player will stay, while Al Ittihad are pulling out all the stops to get the Egyptian talisman. Al Ittihad are said to be willing to splurge $162 million for Salah, whose contract with the Reds runs until 2025.

• Liverpool reject £150m Saudi bid for Salah on hectic transfer deadline day