Despite a relatively quiet transfer window compared to last summer’s record-breaking spending, the Saudi Pro League (SPL) remains committed to attracting top talent and building a competitive league. This was evident in the arrivals of Ivan Toney and Joao Cancelo, two high-profile signings that underscore the league’s ambitions.
Al-Ahli of Jeddah secured the services of Ivan Toney from Brentford for a reported €40 million ($44 million), while reigning champions Al-Hilal brought in Joao Cancelo from Manchester City for an undisclosed fee. These acquisitions highlight the league’s ongoing investment in players with proven quality and experience.
While the total spending by SPL clubs this summer is expected to be significantly lower than last year’s $957 million splurge, Omar Mugharbel, the SPL’s chief executive, remains optimistic. “This is only the beginning with more transfers on the pitch and more development off the pitch,” he told the Associated Press, emphasizing the league’s long-term vision.
The absence of megastar signings this time around, with players like Mohamed Salah and Vinicius Junior choosing to stay at their European clubs, can be attributed to several factors. Notably, many SPL clubs already had their quota of foreign players filled, limiting their ability to bring in more high-profile names. Additionally, the league’s regulations stipulate that each team must have two foreign players under 21 years old, further restricting the number of marquee signings.
Despite the relative lack of blockbuster deals, the SPL saw several noteworthy transfers. Notably, Al-Ittihad paid a hefty $60 million to Aston Villa for French winger Moussa Diaby, making him one of the most expensive acquisitions of the window.
The most active club in the transfer market was newly-promoted Al-Qadsiah. Backed by Saudi oil giant Aramco, the club made several high-profile signings, including former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Spanish international defender Nacho Fernandez. These acquisitions demonstrate the club’s ambition to make a significant impact in the SPL.
“I think what we’ve managed to do last season is really open up the league and create an attractive proposition for star players,” said Mugharbel. “We are continuing on the same path.” The SPL’s focus on developing infrastructure and attracting talented players shows its commitment to becoming a major force in global football.
