Saudi Arabian clubs continue to rampage through European soccer with a different level of financial power. Neymar, Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, Fabinho, Aymeric Laporte, Ruben Neves, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Riyad Mahrez, and too many others to write about have landed.
In addition to the players, Steven Gerrard, who had been on a free agent, took over the helm of Al Ettifaq. The team has also raided Jordan Henderson from Liverpool and acquired former French U-21 international Moussa Dembele from Lyon.
Compared to the other top teams, however, reinforcement activity has been quiet. Further strengthening is essential to keep up with the likes of Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, and Al Hilal. According to Fabrizio Romano, Al Ettifaq is close to acquiring former Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum.
“Saudi side Al Ettifaq have approached Georginio Wijnaldum over potential late move — he’s out of PSG project.”
“Negotiations ongoing, PSG are ready to give the green light. Up to the player.”
“Steven Gerrard wants Gini.”
Saudi side Al Ettifaq have approached Georginio Wijnaldum over potential late move — he’s out of PSG project 🔴🇸🇦
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 30, 2023
Negotiations ongoing, PSG are ready to give the green light. Up to the player.
Steven Gerrard wants Gini. pic.twitter.com/3mLc31ZJtN
The former Dutch midfielder has failed to impress since leaving Liverpool at the end of his contract and was loaned out to AS Roma last season, but an injury slowed him down and he only managed two goals and one assist in 23 games.
At 32 years of age, and with Jordan Henderson, who he played with at Liverpool, there seems to be many advantages to moving to Saudi Arabia, but what will Wijnaldum make of the decision? …?