As the Indian football transfer saga is on its full spin, everyday multiple transfer news pop-up linking players to various clubs. One such news which has taken the Indian football community by surprise is the possibility of the Indian National Team Midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad joining a Saudi Pro League Club. The news was first called by Aswathy Santhosh. The links however are pretty initial and its only a agent-to-agent contact according to Marcus Mergulhao. Their is “nothing serious to report” as the chances of it materialising is “highly unlikely”.
Since the transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo to Al Nassr FC, the Saudi league has now become a hotspot for players in the later part of their career. As Saudi Arabia is eyeing to bid for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, they are trying to strengthen their league on both sporting and marketing front. Signing Sahal Abdul Samad could guarantee them the attention of his tremendous fanbase at Indian Football Team and Kerala Blasters as well as his creative flair in the midfield makes him a hot property. This deal could be an absolute win-win for both the parties.
Sahal has a contract running till June 2025 at Kerala Blasters FC and is a very crucial player for the Malayali club. Acquiring his signature would require a huge sum to be paid to KBFC. Also, he has confirmed interest from Indian Super League clubs like Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Bengaluru FC. It would require a good sporting project to persuade him out of his home club.
Sahal was one of the stand-out performers for the India in its recent success, playing an important role in the Hero Inter-Continental Cup and SAFF Championship 2023 winning campaigns. His recent performances have definitely increased his demands in the transfer market.
