Dozens of elite players are being monitored by the Saudi Pro League ahead of a major transfer push
Some of world football’s biggest names, including Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes, have been underlined as potential summer targets by the Saudi Pro League, with a new report containing both players on a 50-man shortlist as preparations for the next transfer window gather pace.
Salah’s contract at Liverpool runs until 2027, yet uncertainty around his future has grown following a turbulent spell earlier in the season.
After Liverpool’s 1–1 draw with Leeds in December, the forward publicly voiced frustration over his reduced role, saying it “seems like the club has thrown me under the bus” and adding that he felt he had “any relationship” with head coach Arne Slot.
Salah was omitted from the squad for the following match against Inter before later returning after what were described as positive and clarifying discussions with Slot.
While the situation has since calmed, talkSPORT report that the comments prompted initial enquiries from Saudi Arabia. Al Hilal, NEOM FC, and Al Qadsiah were all informed that Salah would not be leaving in the current window, though interest is expected to resurface in the summer.
Meanwhile, the Manchester United captain was heavily linked with a move last summer, with Al Hilal reportedly prepared to offer around £100 million.
Fernandes ultimately rejected the proposal, opting to remain at United and continue, in his words at the time, to “play at the highest level”.
The same shortlist reportedly includes Casemiro, who confirmed this week that he will leave Manchester United at the end of the season.
Several Premier League players are also said to feature prominently. Aston Villa midfielders Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans are both named, along with Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal.
Vinícius also on the list
Perhaps the most striking name linked with Saudi interest is Vinícius Júnior. Reports suggest the Real Madrid winger has endured a difficult spell following a strained relationship with Xabi Alonso and reluctance to commit to a new contract at the Bernabéu.
Vinícius’ current deal runs until June 2027, meaning he will be able to negotiate a free transfer in less than 12 months. From Real Madrid’s perspective, safeguarding a player of his value from that scenario has become an increasingly important priority.
Back in the summer, Vinícius spoke publicly about his contractual situation, briefly addressing the issue during an interview with TNT.
“I want to stay here for a long time,” he said. “I have a year left on my contract and I’m very calm. I trust the president and he trusts me, we have a very good relationship, and we will reach an agreement at the right time.”