Who’s headed to Saudi Arabia so far and who could be next?
The Saudi Pro League could soon be adding a World Cup final hat-trick goalscorer, a Manchester City treble-winner and Liverpool’s Premier League-winning captain to their burgeoning collection of big-name signings.
There has been a powerful recruitment drive by the PIF-owned clubs in Saudi Arabia as the league looks to establish itself among the best in the world and now Kylian Mbappe, Riyad Mahrez and Jordan Henderson could be the next additions.
Here, the PA news agency looks at 10 players already in the Middle East preparing for the new season.
Cristiano Ronaldo – Al-Nassr
Ronaldo joining Al-Nassr kickstarted the league
After his acrimonious departure from Manchester United, five-time Ballon D’Or winner Ronaldo headed to Saudi Arabia as a statement signing that told the footballing world the league meant business.
Karim Benzema – Al-Ittihad
Reigning Ballon D’Or winner Benzema followed his former Real Madrid team-mate, leaving the Spanish capital after his contract expired having won five Champions League titles during his stay.
N’Golo Kante – Al-Ittihad
Like his fellow France international Benzema, Kante headed for the Gulf on a free transfer as he opted to leave Chelsea at the end of his deal, albeit with considerable concerns over his fitness.
Ruben Neves – Al-Hilal
Ruben Neves was Wolves captain before making his move to Saudi Arabia
Portugal international Neves had helped Wolves out of the Sky Bet Championship before enjoying five Premier League campaigns at Molineux, establishing himself as one of the highest-regarded midfielders in the division – something that earned him a reported £47million move.
Kalidou Koulibaly – Al Hilal
Having spent just a single season at Stamford Bridge, Senegal centre-back Koulibaly
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