Latest developments
- Al-Hilal have made an offer for Rodrygo.
- The Saudi Arabian giants are in the market for a Neymar replacement.
- The Brazilian is keen on staying at Real Madrid.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): MARCA report Al-Hilal bid
Al-Hilal have jumped back into the transfer market after parting ways with Neymar. The Saudi Pro League outfit have reportedly submitted an offer for Real Madrid star Rodrygo.
The story comes from the Madrid-based newspaper MARCA, who are considered a top source for all things Los Blancos.
Value (3/5): More than £83m being discussed
Al-Hilal's alleged bid arrived on Monday. The newspaper don't reveal the exact figures but they suggest the offer for the 24-year-old is more than €100million (£83m), drawing comparisons to Al-Nassr's signing of Jhon Duran in a deal worth around £65million. Further, the Riyadh-based outfit intend to make the talented winger one of the highest-paid players in the world.
Suitability (4/5): Flair and quality in abundance
The Brazil international is one of the best wingers in Europe and is sure to add plenty of flair to any side with his insane dribbling and ball-control ability. Further, he is equally prolific, having already managed 12 goals and seven assists across all competitions this term. He would argubly improve any side's attack, not least Al-Hilal's.
Upgrade? (4.5/5): Neymar replacement
The Saudi Arabian powerhouses want to replace Neymar, who has returned to Santos, with another high-profile left-winger. In that regard, there aren't many better options than Rodrygo. The Real sensation has largely played on the right flank at Santiago Bernabeu but he is a natural left-winger and would be a brilliant like-to-like replacement for the Brazilian icon.
Logic (2/5): New poster boy for Saudi
Apart from their lucrative contract, it is suggested that the figures in Saudi want to attract Rodrygo by making him the main image of the 2034 World Cup in Saudi.
At Madrid, despite his talents, he has played a bit part role, owing to the presence of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicious Jr. As such, an opportunity to be a central figure of a new project might tempt the player and his representatives. However, as far as on-field goals are concerned, it's too early for him to move to the Gulf.
Whisper+ verdict: 17/25
Despite Saudi's ambitious plans, the report has suggested that neither Real nor the player is actively looking to part ways. As such, unless Al-Hilal come up with a staggering bid, this saga isn't going too far.
