Saudi Pro League lines up ‘biggest signing since Cristiano Ronaldo’

January 29, 2026 Oliver Obel

Saudi football officials are exploring the possibility of adding another elite European star to the Pro League, with Paris Saint-Germain winger Ousmane Dembélé emerging as a long-term target.

According to Sky Sports, senior figures in Saudi football have held preliminary discussions about a potential move for the French international in 2026. While no formal bid has been made, the broadcaster reports that decision-makers would be prepared to assemble a “significant package” if an opportunity arises.

Dembélé, 27, remains focused on his current role at PSG, where he is expected to play a central part as the club looks to defend both its Ligue 1 and Champions League titles. Any move away from Paris would therefore be a future consideration rather than an immediate objective.

Wider recruitment strategy underway

Interest in Dembélé comes against the backdrop of a broader Saudi recruitment drive. Earlier this month, talkSPORT reported that clubs across the Saudi Pro League are targeting up to 50 foreign players who are considered to be at or near their peak.

That reported shortlist includes high-profile names such as Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes, alongside established European stars Casemiro, Vinícius Júnior and Robert Lewandowski. Several Premier League players including Amadou Onana, Youri Tielemans and Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli have also been linked.

To accommodate new arrivals, Saudi clubs may allow some current high earners to depart. Out-of-contract or senior figures such as N’Golo Kanté, Rúben Neves and Karim Benzema are among those who could leave as squads are reshaped, according to reports.

PSG weigh contract talks

PSG are understood to be keen to secure Dembélé’s long-term future and are expected to open contract discussions with the player, who has two-and-a-half years remaining on his current deal.

However, any extension would need to comply with the club’s internal wage structure. Speaking this week, PSG president Nasser Al Khelaifi reiterated that stance.

“The club's policy is that we have a salary cap for the players, as everyone knows,” Al Khelaifi said. “Everyone must respect it. The team and the club are more important than anyone.”

A changing Saudi landscape

Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol described a potential pursuit of Dembélé as ambitious, while stressing that a deal remains uncertain.

“The Saudi Pro League clubs are anticipating a big summer transfer window and one of the players they are looking to sign is Ousmane Dembélé,” Solhekol said. “They may well try and sign him, but whether he would want to go to Saudi Arabia when he's at the peak of his powers remains to be seen.”

Solhekol added that the financial model underpinning Saudi clubs is evolving. Increased private investment, he said, is reducing reliance on direct state backing and giving clubs greater flexibility in how they approach the transfer market.

Whether that shift proves persuasive enough to attract a player still operating at the top level of European football will become clearer over the coming years.

Sources: Sky Sports, talkSPORT