In a move reflecting the great ambitions of the Saudi Professional League, Al-Ittihad Club has entered into a heated race with European football giants, most notably Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Arsenal, to secure the services of the young Spanish talent Rodrigo Mendoza, known as “Rodri”, a player for Elche Club and the Spanish national team under 21 years old.
According to a report published by the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, Al-Ittihad officials have expressed a strong desire to sign the promising midfielder during the upcoming winter transfer window, in a deal that would represent a significant addition to the club's ambitious project. However, the task will not be easy at all, as the Saudi club faces fierce competition from elite European clubs.
European competition for a promising talent
The British newspaper The Telegraph confirmed that Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, is very impressed with the player's abilities and is keen to bring him to the Emirates Stadium. The newspaper indicated that scouts from the London club have been closely monitoring Rodri recently and are seriously considering activating the release clause in his contract, which amounts to €20 million (approximately £17.5 million). Furthermore, clubs of the stature of Real Madrid and Manchester City are also following the player with interest, especially after many compared him to Barcelona star Pedri, given his playing style and exceptional vision on the pitch.
General context: A strategic shift in the Saudi League
This interest comes within the context of the historic transformation underway in the Saudi league. After its clubs successfully attracted global superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema (who joined Al-Ittihad), the strategy appears to be expanding to include promising young talents. The goal is no longer simply to acquire players at the end of their careers, but rather to build teams capable of competing in the long term by attracting the best future talents. This poses a direct challenge to the dominance of European clubs in the transfer market.
The importance of the deal and its expected impact
If Al-Ittihad succeeds in finalizing this deal, it will not only be a transfer market triumph, but also a powerful message to the world that the Saudi league has become an attractive destination for young players at the beginning of their careers. Domestically, the deal will strengthen Al-Ittihad's squad and intensify the competition in the league. Internationally, this move will confirm that the financial power of Saudi clubs can shift the balance of power in global football, and may open the door for other young talents to view the Saudi league as an important stepping stone in their professional careers, not just a final destination.
The 20-year-old has delivered a remarkable performance with Elche this season, participating in 10 matches and scoring two goals in 635 minutes, making him a target for major clubs looking for the future of their midfield.
