Al-Hilal aims to bolster its attack with a high-profile signing
In a move reflecting the ambitious plans of Al-Hilal Saudi Club, the club has entered the race to sign the talented Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis, star and top scorer of Dutch club AZ Alkmaar. This effort is part of the club's strategy to bolster its attacking options in preparation for the upcoming season and maintain its dominance both domestically and continentally.
According to reliable Belgian journalist Sacha Tavoleri, a specialist in the player transfer market, Al-Hilal's management has already begun contacting the player's representatives to ascertain his conditions and stance on a potential move to the Saudi Professional League. This move indicates Al-Hilal's seriousness in finalizing the deal, despite the expected fierce competition from prestigious European clubs, most notably Portuguese side Benfica, who are considered among the most interested in acquiring the player.
Background of the deal and Saudi League ambitions
Al-Hilal's interest in Pavlidis comes amidst the dramatic transformation of the Saudi Professional League, which has become a magnet for some of the world's biggest football stars. Following blockbuster signings like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar Jr., and Karim Benzema, major Saudi clubs continue to attract talent to raise the technical level and increase competitiveness. For Al-Hilal, adding a striker with Pavlidis's goal-scoring prowess would provide strategic depth to the team, especially given their participation in the Saudi Professional League, the King's Cup, and the AFC Champions League. It would also offer an alternative and an additional option alongside Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic.
Who is Vangelis Pavlidis? A Greek goal machine
Vangelis Pavlidis, 27, is considered one of the most prominent strikers in European leagues today. He rose to prominence with Dutch club AZ Alkmaar, delivering an exceptional performance in the 2023-2024 season and topping the Eredivisie scoring charts with an impressive goal tally. During his time with Alkmaar, Pavlidis proved himself a complete striker with a keen eye for goal, the ability to score with both feet and his head, as well as his physical strength and effective contribution to build-up play. His statistics speak for themselves: dozens of goals and numerous assists have made him a target for top clubs across Europe.
The expected impact of the deal on the sports scene
If Al-Hilal succeeds in completing this deal, its impact will not be limited to the domestic level. Locally , it will bolster Al-Hilal's formidable attacking force and make them the leading contender to retain their titles. Regionally , it will enhance the team's chances of competing for the AFC Champions League title, the club's ultimate goal. Internationally , Al-Hilal's success in outmaneuvering a club the size of Benfica to secure a player sought after in Europe will further confirm the purchasing power and growing stature of the Saudi league on the global football map, demonstrating its ability to compete with major European leagues for top talent.
