The 32-time England international Jesse Lingard, who has been without a club since July 1, is apparently hoping for a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia. “It’s something I would also consider. I wouldn’t rule that out,” said the 30-year-old at “Sky Sports“ and raved about the development in the desert state. “Great things are happening there in the next few years. It will be one of the hotspots. I’m not really surprised that big players went there.”
Lingard’s contract with Nottingham Forest had not been renewed after a poor season. The offensive player contributed two goals and two assists in 20 games. Lingard last donned the England jersey in October 2021.
Mendy new: Top additions to the Saudi Pro League
Vincent Aboubakar | 2021/22 | Besiktas -> Al-Nassr | Market value: €10 million
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in league football with money from the Public Investment Fund chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The investment fund took majority stakes in Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr and up-and-coming Al-Ahli. Cristiano Ronaldo (38; Al-Nassr) was signed last winter, and stars like Karim Benzema (35), N’Golo Kanté (32; both Al-Ittihad), Rúben Neves (26), Kalidou Koulibaly ( 32; both Al-Hilal) or Edouard Mendy (31; Al-Ahli). In the short term, a high level of attention is to be attracted and a better image for the country, which is often criticized for its human rights situation, is to be achieved through sport. The ultimate goal is likely to be the organization of a future world championship.
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