Saudi Arabia continues its ambitious plan to expand and strengthen its football on a global scale. In this transfer market, the Saudi Pro League secured several high-profile signings of players and coaches with proven success in Europe. 

The most talked-about move is Mateo Retegui. The Italian-Argentine striker, top scorer of the last Serie A, left Atalanta to join Al-Qadsiah for €65 million.

After scoring 28 goals and providing nine assists last season, Retegui arrives as one of the league’s marquee signings. The transfer also generated revenue for Boca, River, Talleres, thanks to FIFA’s solidarity mechanism. 

Alexandre Lacazette also makes headlines. The French forward, who shone at Arsenal and Lyon, signed with NEOM, a newly promoted Saudi club eager to compete at the highest level. With over 200 career goals, Lacazette brings both experience and quality. 

Joining him at NEOM is Christophe Galtier, former PSG coach. The French manager, who won Ligue 1 titles with Lille in 2021 and PSG in 2023, now takes on the challenge of leading the Tabuk-based team in its first season in the top flight. 

Meanwhile, Al-Hilal strengthened its squad with two major additions: left-back Theo Hernández, a Milan and France standout, and Simone Inzaghi, who recently coached Inter. With these reinforcements, Al-Hilal boosts its defensive power and leadership, joining a roster already featuring Bono, Cancelo, and Mitrović. 

These signings confirm that Saudi Arabia’s football project is not just about bringing in aging stars. The league is increasingly targeting top-level talent in their prime, aiming to create a truly competitive competition that can rival Europe’s best.

Once again, the Saudi transfer market has become a focal point in global football.