Could Kylian Mbappe be joining Saudi football club Al-Hilal?
One of the world’s most high-profile footballers may have set his sights on Saudi Pro League…
The Saudi Pro League has already recruited football legends including Cristiano Ronaldo and Steven Gerrard. But now it’s reported that another soccer icon, this time French captain Kylian Mbappe, could be set to relocate to Saudi Arabia.
According to international media reports, Saudi Pro League team Al-Hilal have submitted a record-breaking bid to try and secure the French striker, who is currently signed to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The deal is reported to be worth an eye-watering €300 million (SAR 1,242,900,000).
Neither Al-Hilal or Kylian Mbappe have commented on the news, but according to Sky Sports, PSG have given permission for the soccer striking star to speak to Al-Hilal after their record-breaking offer.
Who are Al-Hilal?
Celebration and winning, Thank you leaders ?⚽️
Full-Time:#AlHilal 4 ? 2 Kuwait SC pic.twitter.com/TACcYDztFj
— AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) July 23, 2023
If Kylian Mbappe were to take the deal, he’d be joining a team with an impressive reputation not just in Riyadh, but in Asia.
Active since 1957, Riyadh-based Al-Hilal, who play in blue, white and red, have been Saudi champions no less than 18 times. In the 2022/23 season, Al-Hilal finished third behind behind winners Al Ittihad and Cristiano Ronaldo’s team, Al Nassr.
It’s shaping up to be an exciting season for the Saudi Pro League
While Kylian Mbappe’s transfer may not yet be confirmed, one move that is is that of Steven Gerrard. The former Liverpool and England player was appointed as head coach of Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq football team earlier this month. Last year, Al Ettifaq finished seventh in the Saudi Pro League out of 16 teams, with Al Ittihad FC winning the league. This season, 18 teams will compete for the coveted Saudi Pro League championship title.
The most notable football player to make a move to Saudi Arabia has been one of football’s biggest names, Cristiano Ronaldo. He made the move to Al Nassr football club in January 2023. The team finished second at the end of the 22/23 Saudi Pro League season. Last month, Real Madrid star Karim Benzema confirmed he would also be moving to Saudi Arabia ahead of the new season to play for current champions, Al Ittihad.
All will return to the pitch with the return of the Saudi Pro League on August 11 for the 2023/24 season.
Image: Getty