Saudi Pro League team Al-Hilal announced today, Tuesday, the signing of Brazilian forward Neymar. Al-Hilal commented on the X social media platform: "Neymar is a Hilali." They added in Portuguese, "A wonderful talent that has caught everyone's attention." Neymar had been sidelined by Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique and did not participate in the disappointing goalless draw against Lorient in the opening of Ligue 1.
Reports indicate that the Saudi club has agreed with the 31-year-old forward to earn €160 million ($175 million) over two seasons. Since the return of Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus to Al-Hilal this summer, the veteran coach has spoken about the team's need for forwards. Despite signing Brazilian Malcolm, the team's attacking problems were apparent when they failed to take advantage of a numerical advantage against Al-Nassr in the Arab Club Champions Cup final, squandering their lead to lose 2-1 after extra time.
The Saudi league has become attractive for stars following Cristiano Ronaldo's transfer to Al-Nassr during the last winter transfer window. Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kanté joined league champions Al-Ittihad, while rivals Al-Ahli have signed Roberto Firmino and Riyad Mahrez, alongside Sergej Milinković-Savić, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Rubén Neves joining Al-Hilal.
