The Saudi Pro League is following through on its commitment to attract top-tier football talent from Europe.
Despite some of the earlier summer signings not meeting expectations, the Middle Eastern nation is determined to maintain its momentum in recruiting elite players.
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Saudi Pro League, Carlo Nohra openly expressed the nation’s ambition to sign top footballers across Europe in a recent interview with CNN.
The league, backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), has now reportedly turned its attention to Barcelona forward, Raphinha Belloli.
Saudi League to sign Raphinha?
As per a report from the Spanish outlet SPORT, as cited by Managing Barca, Al-Hilal are seeking temporary reinforcements to fill the gap left by the season-ending injury to former Paris Saint-Germain star, Neymar Jr.
🚨 Al Hilal want to sign Raphinha as a replacement for Neymar. @sport pic.twitter.com/AYBKGR6n7G
— Managing Barça (@ManagingBarca) November 23, 2023
Raphinha, who joined Barcelona from Leeds United last year, has played 61 matches across all competitions, scoring 12 goals for the Catalan giants.
In the current season, the 26-year-old Brazilian international has featured in 16 games for La Blaugrana, registering three goals and three assists.
While Al-Hilal attempted to attract Raphinha during the summer transfer window, he opted to stay in Spain. However, given Barcelona’s financial challenges and his declining significance in coach Xavi Hernandez’s plans, a transfer now seems plausible.
The decision ultimately rests with the Brazilian forward but the increasing reports have suggested that an intriguing winter transfer window is on the horizon.
Raphinha mocked by fans
Kimbiblog Sports also previously reported on fans mocking Barcelona midfielder, Raphinha Belloliduring the clash between Brazil and Argentina.
The 26-year-old attempted a skill move against Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez but failed in a comical fashion, summing up his team’s night.
The move by the former Leeds United star stirred reactions from fans and many took to social media to troll Raphinha for his embarrassing moment.