Saudi Pro League club approach Real Madrid star Thibaut Courtois over transfer: Reports
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is reportedly a target for an unnamed Saudi Pro League side. They are said to be ready to pay €70 million for the Belgium international but Los Blancos are not interested in selling.
As per a report by journalist Jose Felix Diaz, Saudi Pro League clubs will once again make moves for big-name European players in the 2025 summer window. Courtois is one of their main targets. The goalkeeper is the latest Real Madrid star linked with Saudi clubs amid reports that Vincius Jr, Luka Modric, and others are also on the Middle Eastern clubs' radar.
Courtois' contract at thee Santiago Bernabeu runs until 2026 and is keen on staying at the club he joined after leaving Chelsea. He wrote a note for his fans after penning a new deal back in 2021 that read:
"The atmosphere in the changing rooms. The sound of fans cheering from the stands. Three years later, I'm happy to announce my contract extension with Real Madrid until 2026. My family and friends recently asked me where I'd like to play in the coming years.
"My answer remains the same today as it was when I was a little boy: Real Madrid. Adding two more years in the best shirt in the world makes that childhood dream even sweeter. I love being a part of Real Madrid. It's a blessing to extend my family at home with a whole new one on the field."
Saudi Pro League sides have been on a mission to lure top European players. Vinicius Jr reportedly has a $1 billion offer from a Middle Eastern side to join them from Los Blancos.
Former Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo credited for Saudi Pro League success
Cristiano Ronaldo was the first high-profile name to move to the Saudi Pro League. The league's chief, Michael Emenalo, has credited the former Manchester United superstar for opening the doors for players to move to the country and told Sky Sports:
"Absolutely. Given his pedigree, it didn't hurt that he had the balls to do this. All these guys know each other, especially at the top of the tree. And there were big conversations of: 'Wow, I can't believe you did this. Well, I did this and it's big and it's magnificent.' So, definitely Ronaldo takes some credit of having unlocked a lot of interest in some of his colleagues, yes."
Neymar, N'Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez have also moved to the Middle East in the last 18 months. Luke Modric was linked with a move but the Croatian has stayed with the Spanish side for now.