Saudi Exodus: Premier League Sides Look to Offer an Escape Route for Disgruntled Saudi Pro League Stars
Several big-name players plying their trade in the Saudi Pro League are thought to be eyeing moves back to Europe after sojourns to the Middle East have not seen them settle well.
Al-Ettifaq’s Jordan Henderson leads the way among the mega stars who are looking for a way out of the SPL and back to Europe. The former Liverpool captain has endured a poor run of form alongside his side’s struggles this season, with the big-name signings under Steven Gerrard’s tutelage failing to sparkle.
Chelsea, Ajax, Bayern Munich, and Beyer Leverkusen are some sides that have expressed interest in signing the Englishman, adding to the speculation of his exit from the SPL.
26-million signing Jota at Al-Ittihad is also another major name looking for a way out of the Saudi Pro League. The Portuguese failed to make it into the SPL squad for the reigning champions, limiting his appearances solely to the AFC Champions League. Tottenham have been linked with the player, offering intrigue as the transfer window wears on.
Karim Benzema is another marquee summer signing who has not seen the move materialize in the manner of initial expectations. The unsettled former Real Madrid striker offers an enticing possibility for title-chasing Arsenal, who have underperforming front-men Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah this term.
The unsettled stars in the SPL could prove a boon for European sides as they look to take advantage of the winter window.
