Paris Saint-Germain superstar Ousmane Dembele has reportedly become a prime target for the Saudi Pro League, signaling another potential high-profile exit from European football.
Following his Ballon d’Or win last year, Dembele is seeking a new contract that reflects his status among the world’s elite. Sources suggest the French winger is in no rush to commit to PSG and could be tempted if the right offer arrives.
The 28-year-old’s mother is of Mauritanian and Senegalese descent, while his father is Malian.
A growing trend of stars moving East
The Saudi League has increasingly attracted global stars, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Ruben Neves, Neymar, and Sadio Mane all making the switch in recent years.
Sky Sports journalist Kaveh Solhekol has suggested Dembele could be next. “If this happens, it would be the biggest deal for Saudi Arabia since they signed Cristiano Ronaldo,” he said. Solhekol added that private investment is now playing a growing role in Saudi football, giving clubs more flexibility to lure elite players.
Dembele’s credentials at PSG
Dembele’s form at PSG has been exceptional. He led the club to a historic six-trophy haul in 2025, scoring 35 goals and registering 14 assists across all competitions.
At 28, he is at the peak of his powers and widely regarded as one of the best players in world football, making him a marquee target for any league aiming to raise its profile.
Could he follow Salah’s path?
The French international could become a figurehead for a new era in Saudi football, similar to Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, who is also linked with a move later in his career.
While Solhekol describes the transfer as a “long shot,” the evolving landscape of Saudi football—with a mix of state-backed funding and private investment—suggests that high-profile moves for world-class stars are increasingly plausible.
