Saudi Arabia’s obsession: The 6 Barça stars they can not ignore – report

It’s no surprise that Saudi Arabian teams are still eager to strengthen their squads. Even after last year’s huge investments, they continue to show interest in several top players from Barcelona.

A recent report from Mundo Deportivo highlights that Saudi teams are keen to keep growing and have reached out to a number of Barcelona players. 

These players include Jules Kounde, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, Clement Lenglet, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Joao Felix.

Right now, these players seem committed to staying with Barcelona or continuing their careers in Europe. However, with the summer transfer window still open, there might be some unexpected moves.

Saudi Interest in Barcelona Players

Jules Kounde

Interestingly, Kounde is the latest Barcelona player to be linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. 

Al-Ittihad are reportedly interested in signing the Frenchman as their sports director, Ramon Planes, is a big fan of the defender. 

Despite this interest, Kounde is happy at Barcelona and is considered a key part of their defense.

Raphinha

Raphinha does not want to leave Barcelona. (Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images)

Raphinha turned down a proposal from Saudi Arabia last summer but remains highly desired by Saudi teams. 

It is said that one of the top clubs in Saudi Arabia are willing to spend around €100 million to acquire the winger. 

They are also ready to offer him double his current salary. However, Raphinha and his family are very comfortable in Barcelona, making it unlikely he will agree to leave.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen

There has been speculation for months about Saudi interest in goalkeeper Ter Stegen, specifically from Al-Ittihad. 

However, the keeper recently renewed his contract with Barcelona until 2028 and plans to stay with the club.

Robert Lewandowski

Robert Lewandowski wants to fulfil his Barcelona contract. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Saudi Arabia continues to dream of bringing another top striker like Lewandowski to their league. 

They are willing to offer him over €100 million per season to convince him to play in Saudi Arabia. However, sources close to Lewandowski have made it clear that he is not considering leaving Barcelona.

Joao Felix

Felix was on Al-Hilal’s radar before he joined Barcelona on loan last summer. 

Right now, it is said that Barcelona would like to keep Felix on loan for another year, but if they can’t reach an agreement with Atletico Madrid, the Saudi league could be a potential destination for the Portuguese forward.

Clement Lenglet

Last summer, Lenglet rejected offers from Saudi Arabia and instead joined Aston Villa on loan. 

He is now set to return to Barcelona, but Saudi clubs are still interested in him. Despite this, Lenglet prefers to continue his career in Europe.