Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo de Paul has reportedly attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League. The 29-year-old could depart Spain this summer and join Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia. Reports of the move come as a massive surprise, considering the player’s well-known ties to Lionel Messi.
The World Cup winner has been the subject of an inquiry by Saudi outfit Al-Ahli. Talks between Los Colchoneros and Al-Ahli have been opened, although a transfer looks unlikely at the moment. Atletico would prefer to keep the player. However, they could be swayed by an attractive financial proposal, As of now, Al-Ahli has reportedly tabled a bid in the region of $55 million.
🚨Al-Ahli are preparing to make a €50 million opening bid to Atletico Madrid for Rodrigo de Paul. 🇦🇷 🔵 #Atleti 🟢 #AlAhli https://t.co/cHJgVOafQJ pic.twitter.com/dc3W27a2ai
— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) August 21, 2023
Cristiano Ronaldo is about to pull Messi’s body guard to Saudi Arabia after sending his best friend Neymar there 🤣
— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) August 21, 2023
Ronaldo about to pull Messi’s Body Guard to Saudi after sending his best friend Neymar there will end the GOAT Debate
— Twilight (@the_marcoli_boy) August 21, 2023
News of the potential deal caused a stir online, as fans were quick to point out the irony in Lionel Messi’s best friend joining Cristiano Ronaldo in the Middle East. Others expressed their concerns at the SPL acquiring yet another Soccer star.
Rodrigo de Paul: Contract, Salary, and Stats
Since joining from Udinese in 2021, the 29-year-old has had a middling spell in Spain. De Paul has made a total of 65 appearances for Atleti, grabbing five goals and registering five assists. The midfielder is renowned for his work rate and creativity on the ball. His biggest career achievement remains the 2022 World Cup triumph with Argentina.
Negotiations between Al Ahli, Atlético and Rodrigo de Paul’s camp continue — more to follow. 🟢🇸🇦 https://t.co/9WXd7A39Bs
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2023
In 2021, de Paul penned a five-year contract with the La Liga side, keeping him at the club until 2026. Reports estimate his weekly wages to be around $140,000, placing his annual earnings at $7.1 million. It will take a lucrative contract offer from Al-Ahli to lure de Paul to Saudi Arabia. And should the deal come to fruition, the player will undoubtedly receive a sizable pay bump.