In a move that could reshape the global transfer landscape, Spanish media reports have revealed exceptional interest from Saudi club Al-Ittihad in signing Barcelona's rising star, Lamine Yamal, in what could be the most expensive transfer in football history. This ambitious move is part of the Saudi Professional League's strategy to attract top international stars and solidify its position as a global sporting destination.
Background of the ambitious Saudi project
Saudi Arabia's interest in international stars is no longer a coincidence; it's part of a massive investment vision spearheaded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) to transform the domestic league into one of the top 10 leagues in the world. This revolution began with the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr, followed by blockbuster signings such as Neymar and Kalidou Koulibaly to Al-Hilal, and Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kanté to Al-Ittihad. Now, the focus seems to be shifting from established stars to young talents who represent the future of the game, with Lamine Yamal at the forefront of this trend.
Why Lamin Yamal?
According to the Spanish newspaper Fichajes, Al-Ittihad's management sees Yamal (16 years old) as more than just a player. They view him as a long-term investment and an attacking force capable of leading the team for years to come. This interest comes at a sensitive time for Al-Ittihad, with increasing uncertainty surrounding the future of French striker Karim Benzema. Therefore, the club plans to submit a massive financial offer that could reach €300 million, a figure intended not only to entice Barcelona but also to send a strong message to the world that the Saudi league is capable of competing for any player.
Barcelona's stance and the player
Despite Barcelona's financial crisis, letting Lamine Yamal go seems out of the question. The Catalan club's management considers the player, a product of their renowned La Masia academy, a cornerstone of their future project and a symbol of the club's identity. Yamal's contract with Barcelona runs until 2026, with an option to extend until 2031, and includes a massive €1 billion release clause, making his departure virtually impossible.
For his part, the player has no desire to leave his boyhood club, where he feels comfortable and happy and enjoys the confidence of the coach and the team. Yamal has proven his worth on the pitch, having had an exceptional season in which he scored 7 goals and provided 10 assists in 50 appearances across all competitions, breaking several records as the youngest player to ever appear and score for both the club and the Spanish national team.
The potential impact of the deal
If this deal were to go through, which is currently unlikely, it would send shockwaves through the football world. Domestically, it would give Al-Ittihad unparalleled attacking power. Globally, it would confirm that the Saudi league's financial might is capable of shifting the balance of power, moving from attracting established stars at the end of their careers to poaching the brightest young talents from major European clubs – a move that could change the game forever.
