Two years after signing Cristiano Ronaldo, the Saudi Pro League is poised for another exciting season.
The ambitious Middle Eastern league aims to make a significant attacking transfer this January, potentially leaving Premier League fans feeling let down.
According to talkSPORT’s Saudi correspondent Ben Jacobs, Ronaldo is expected to be joined at Al Nassr by one of the Bundesliga’s rising stars – Victor Boniface.
However, his transfer is not guaranteed, as Al Nassr is also vying for Aston Villa’s talented striker, Jhon Duran.
Duran has emerged as one of the standout players in English football this season, showcasing his skills as an unstoppable supersub with an impressive collection of long-range goals.
Having been signed in 2023 from Chicago Fire, the 21-year-old Colombian has caught the attention of Chelsea in his debut season, but this January, he has become a target for another London club.
talkSPORT reports that West Ham has made bids of £40 million and £57 million for Duran this month. Despite the Hammers’ unsuccessful attempts, Saudi dealmakers remain interested in the player.
Jacobs further notes that Duran has agreed to terms, and discussions are ongoing regarding a transfer fee.
If both players are signed, one may be transferred to another Saudi Pro League club.
Meanwhile, Boniface is set to leave Bayer Leverkusen for €60 million (£50 million), despite initially appearing destined for a long and successful career in Germany.
The 24-year-old Nigerian was Leverkusen’s top scorer last season, netting 21 goals as the team only lost once – in the Europa League final.
Although they became Bundesliga champions for the first time and won the DFB Pokal, Leverkusen has not maintained their previous dominance but remain competitive in the title race and Champions League.
Leading the attack have been Patrik Schick with 17 goals and Florian Wirtz with 14, while Boniface has scored eight.
Boniface missed a significant period due to a car accident in October, and just a month later, a video surfaced of him texting while driving.
Head coach Xabi Alonso commented, “Of course, driving while on your phone is not allowed. It’s not good and it shouldn’t happen. I haven’t seen Boni yet, but he knows. We have to remind him that it’s not correct behavior, it’s not allowed.”
Boniface has not played for Leverkusen since November, having been left on the bench twice after returning to the squad in January.
Both he and Duran, given their age and talent, could fill a significant void in Saudi football, especially after the departure of the world’s most expensive footballer, Neymar, from Al Hilal after just 18 months.
Neymar is reportedly set to return to Santos, where his career began. He confirmed his departure on social media, stating, “To everyone at Al Hilal, to the fans, thank you!”
“I gave everything to play, and I wish we enjoyed better times on the pitch together… Thank you, Saudi, for giving me and my family a new home and new experiences. I now know the real Saudi and have friends for life. I always felt your love and passion for the game.”
“I will be following your journey ahead as a club and a country towards 2034. Your future will be incredible, and special things are happening. I will always support you!”
Neymar played in just five out of a possible 59 games for Al Hilal due to injury, yet the team won four trophies, including the Pro League.
