Saudi Arabian clubs have done a lot to disrupt the dynamic of the European transfer market this summer, roping in footballing stars such as Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante. There are many more to potentially follow, including Sergio Ramos, Ruben Neves, and Hakim Ziyech.
Saudi Arabian clubs are working on deals to lure these players to the Middle East. And according to Toni Juanmarti (h/t Carpetas Blaugranas), it appears they have eyed another top player in the form of Sergi Roberto.
The Barcelona captain has become the latest target for Saudi Arabia, as the oil-rich country continues to lure footballers across the world, in their bid to enhance the footballing culture in the nation.
As per Juanmarti, Roberto has received an enquiry from Saudi Arabia via an intermediary. Although nothing concrete has taken place, it appears the Middle East nation is probing the possibility of signing the Barcelona captain in the coming summer.
With Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba leaving the club at the end of the month, Roberto is set to play a key role for Barcelona next season. The player has extended his contract at the club and is set to become the club’s first captain in the season ahead.
That means an attempt from Saudi Arabia is unlikely to deter the player, who can still move to the Middle East next year, at the very least. But the decision could depend on Barcelona as well, knowing they could receive quite a lucrative offer for the Spaniard.
Everything considered, Roberto still has one year remaining on his contract. That means Saudi Arabian clubs would have to offer Barcelona a sum in order to secure the services of the 31-year-old, which in turn, can act as a source of revenue for the club.
The Catalans, though, are likely to respect the renewal of Roberto, especially after the exit of Busquets and Alba.
