Saudi clubs target major La Liga names
Saudi interest grows as contracts near expiry
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which finances leading clubs including Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad, is preparing an ambitious push to sign Robert Lewandowski, Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba. A senior official confirmed the interest, according to 365scores via Mundo Deportivo, describing next summer as an opportunity to secure a trio of veteran players with extensive Champions League and international experience.
The timing is notable because all three are approaching the ends of their current contracts. Lewandowski’s deal with Barcelona expires at the close of the season, while Rüdiger and Alaba are entering what could be their final months at Real Madrid unless renewals are agreed. For Saudi clubs, this alignment reduces transfer fees and makes substantial contract offers more appealing to the players involved.
Why these players matter beyond football circles
For readers less familiar with European football, Lewandowski, Rüdiger and Alaba are among the most recognizable athletes in the sport. Lewandowski is one of the most prolific goal scorers of his generation, Rüdiger has been a key defender for both Chelsea and Real Madrid, and Alaba is known for his versatility, leadership and long tenure at Bayern Munich before joining Madrid. Their potential moves would not only shift competitive balance in Spain but would also signal Saudi Arabia’s continued effort to elevate its domestic league by importing globally known talent.
This strategy has become a central part of Saudi investment in sports, which includes previous headline-making signings such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. The pursuit of these La Liga players fits into that broader push to strengthen international visibility.
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Barcelona’s financial considerations
Barcelona’s management remains open to parting ways with Lewandowski, depending on how the club’s financial restrictions evolve. According to reporting from MD, the team hopes to regain La Liga’s 1,1 spending rule, which would allow them to use every euro saved on outgoing salaries toward new signings. If that flexibility returns, Barcelona could redirect Lewandowski’s full wage toward pursuing a high-profile striker, with names such as Julián Álvarez or Harry Kane circulating in Spanish media.
Saudi interest in Lewandowski is not new. According to Mundo Deportivo, previous approaches fell short, but the current conditions may make renewed talks more realistic.
Madrid evaluates its defensive options
Real Madrid has not yet made decisions on the futures of Rüdiger and Alaba, and the club is expected to wait until later in the season before addressing their situations. However, according to MD, many inside the organization believe Alaba could depart due to increased competition in defense under manager Xabi Alonso.
Rüdiger, who recently returned from the international break, is expected to review his options carefully as more clarity emerges about Madrid’s long-term plans.
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How the World Cup influences decisions
All three players hope to represent their national teams at next summer’s World Cup. According to the same reporting, personal decisions about transfers are unlikely to be finalized until after that tournament. Major international competitions often delay contract talks because players prioritize securing their national-team roles before committing to club moves.
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