Al Ettifaq are set to shake up the summer transfer window with a historic bid: €200 million for two of AC Milan’s biggest names, Theo Hernández and Rafael Leao. Determined to climb the table and compete with the giants of the Saudi Pro League, the Saudi club have embarked on an ambitious plan that could change the landscape of European and Asian football in the coming months.
Damman’s sporting directors see these two players as the quality leap needed to transform their project. From a modest mid-table position in the league, the club are determined to create a sporting revolution that will place them among the greats of the Arab tournament, and to achieve this they are prepared to shake up the market with an unprecedented transaction.
The Saudi Pro League is preparing 200 million deals for Theo Hernández and Rafael Leao.
The reaction from Milan hasn’t been entirely negative. The Rossoneri are said to be seriously considering the possibility of letting both of their key attacking players leave if the final price fits in with their rebuilding plans. A sale would free up wages and strengthen several areas of the squad, although the loss of Leao and Theo would be a significant blow on a sporting level.
The big question mark is the willingness of the two players. While the Italian club are studying the figures, neither the French full-back nor the Portuguese winger have given any clear indication as to whether they would accept a move to the Saudi Arabian league. Their youth, potential and prominence in Europe could hold them back, but the size of the offer and the growth of football in the region make the scenario more open than ever. It promises to be a long summer at the San Siro.
