In a notable development during the final hours of the winter transfer window, reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, a specialist in player transfer news, revealed a late attempt by Spanish club Atlético Madrid to sign young Spanish star Gabri Vega, the Al-Ahli Saudi midfielder. According to Romano, the Spanish club submitted a formal offer to bring the player back to La Liga, but the offer was rejected by Al-Ahli's management, who are determined to retain one of their key players.
Background to the deal: From shining in Spain to the surprise move to Saudi Arabia
Atletico Madrid's interest in Gabri Vega (23 years old) is a continuation of their previous attempts to sign the player. Vega was one of the most promising young talents in La Liga during the 2022/23 season with his former club Celta Vigo, where he impressed with his attacking prowess and ability to score goals from midfield, netting 11 goals and providing 4 assists. This impressive performance put him on the radar of major European clubs, including Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Napoli, who came very close to securing his signature.
But in a move that surprised the global sports community, Vega chose to transfer to the Saudi Professional League, joining Al-Ahli in the summer of 2023, in a deal estimated at around €40 million. This transfer marked a turning point in the transfer market, demonstrating the ability of Saudi clubs to attract young, promising European talents, not just established stars in the twilight of their careers.
The importance of rejection and its impact on the player's future and the Saudi League
Al-Ahli's rejection of Atlético Madrid's offer carries significant implications on several levels. Locally and regionally , this stance underscores that major Saudi clubs, backed by the Public Investment Fund, do not view their star players as mere short-term investments, but rather as part of a long-term sporting project aimed at building competitive teams and elevating the league to one of the best in the world. Holding onto a player of Vega's caliber sends a powerful message: the purchasing power of Saudi clubs also empowers them to retain their talents despite the allure of returning to Europe.
Internationally , this rejection presents a challenge for European clubs that might want to bring back players who have moved to Saudi Arabia. It's no longer simply a matter of convincing the player; it also requires submitting substantial financial offers capable of persuading Saudi clubs to part with their prized assets. With Vega continuing his impressive form with Al-Ahli, having participated in 30 matches this season, scoring 4 goals and providing 8 assists, the battle for his services is expected to reignite in the upcoming summer transfer window, making him one of the most sought-after players.
