Saudi clubs launch aggressive pursuit of several Barcelona stars with astronomical offers expected | OneFootball

According to a report from SPORT, several Saudi Pro League teams have turned their full attention to Barcelona.

In fact, the outlet mentions that representatives from Al Hilal, Al Nassr, and Al Ittihad have travelled to Barcelona in recent days to explore big-money operations for some of the Catalan club’s top assets.

The report claims these emissaries have already held talks with the club’s sporting department, testing the waters for players who are currently considered key to Hansi Flick’s project.

What is clear is that the offers being discussed could reach staggering figures, both in terms of transfer fees and wages.

Raphinha targeted by Al Hilal amid contract stalemate

One of the primary targets is Raphinha, who has recently been in talks with Barcelona over a contract renewal.

However, those negotiations have hit a standstill, particularly over disagreements regarding the length of the new deal and the Brazilian’s salary expectations.

Al Hilal are closely monitoring the situation and are said to be readying a massive offer that could see the winger earn up to three times his current wage.

Barça, for their part, still view Raphinha as a valuable member of the squad, but with no agreement in place and financial pressures looming large, an offer of such magnitude could force the club to reconsider their stance.

Al Nassr interested in centre-back duo

Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo are wanted by Al Nassr. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Al Nassr are said to be focused on reinforcing their defence and have enquired about Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo.

However, the response from Barcelona has been firm—neither player is for sale, at least for now. The duo are seen as a foundational piece in Flick’s setup, and unless an outrageous fee is presented, they are expected to stay.

Interestingly, Andreas Christensen is also on their radar, and this is where things could get more serious, as the Danish international is expected to leave this summer.

Al Ittihad keen on Frenkie de Jong

Al Ittihad have shown interest in bolstering their midfield and have identified Frenkie de Jong as a prime target.

For what it is worth, there was a time when this might have been a realistic pursuit, especially when De Jong’s future at the club was unclear and talks of a sale emerged to alleviate financial concerns.

However, the Dutchman’s situation has since stabilised. He is now expected to renew his contract and remain a core figure under Flick. Though

Al Ittihad may return with a massive offer, it now appears unlikely that Barça would entertain serious talks unless De Jong has a change of heart.

The bottom line is clear—Saudi clubs are prepared to spend big, and Barcelona, despite their sporting ambitions, remain financially vulnerable.

Offers that could triple player salaries and inject huge sums into the club’s coffers are hard to ignore. But at the same time, the Blaugrana know that if they want to stay on top, selling their best players could significantly weaken Flick’s project.