Neymar transfer to Al Hilal: PSG soccer star to join Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Pro League. Check details

Paris St-Germain (PSG) has reached an agreement to transfer Brazilian forward Neymar to Saudi Pro League team Al-Hilal for a fee of approximately 90 million euros (£77.6 million), along with potential add-ons. The completion of this transfer is contingent upon the 31-year-old successfully undergoing a medical examination and fulfilling all required paperwork.

Neymar, who originally joined PSG for a world record sum of 222 million euros in 2017, was omitted from the squad during their Ligue 1 match against Lorient over the weekend. The decision aligned with coach Luis Enrique's plans for the upcoming season, as Neymar was not part of them.

This move also aligns with PSG's strategy to shift away from the "Galacticos" era characterized by signing high-profile players for substantial fees and significant wages. This direction has been highlighted by the departure of Lionel Messi from the club earlier in the summer.


Neymar's earnings at the French club were estimated to be around 25 million euros (£21.6 million) annually. However, reports indicate that he will receive an annual salary of 150 million euros (£129.2 million) in Saudi Arabia, a considerable increase—six times the amount he earned at PSG.

During his tenure with PSG, the Brazilian forward participated in 173 matches, contributing to the team's victory in 13 trophies, including five Ligue 1 titles, and their appearance in the 2020 Champions League final. Despite these achievements, Neymar's time in Paris was marked by several ankle injuries, including one that led to surgery in March and caused him to miss the remainder of the season.

The deal involving Neymar comes shortly after PSG's Kylian Mbappe returned to first-team training, following productive discussions with the club. The 24-year-old French forward, whose contract was nearing its end, was initially in a standoff over a possible move to Real Madrid. However, he is now considering an extension of his contract with PSG.

This summer has seen an influx of significant spending by Saudi clubs, showcasing their aspiration to elevate the league's status to that of a premier global competition in the coming years. Renowned players like Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, Jordan Henderson, Ruben Neves, Sadio Mane, and Roberto Firmino have all transitioned to Saudi Arabia. Moreover, Portugal's superstar Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr from Manchester United earlier in January.

FAQs

Q1. Who are playing in Saudi Arabia?
A1. Renowned players like Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, Jordan Henderson, Ruben Neves, Sadio Mane, and Roberto Firmino have all transitioned to Saudi Arabia. Moreover, Portugal's superstar Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr from Manchester United earlier in January.

Q2. What are details of Neymar deal?
A2. The deal involving Neymar comes shortly after PSG's Kylian Mbappe returned to first-team training, following productive discussions with the club. The 24-year-old French forward, whose contract was nearing its end, was initially in a standoff over a possible move to Real Madrid. However, he is now considering an extension of his contract with PSG.