Saudi Arabia’s top football clubs will face tighter financial rules during the upcoming winter transfer window, limiting spending compared with the summer market. Reports indicate the move is being driven by new policies around club finances and player acquisitions, with the goal of creating a more balanced winter market. The shift comes as teams look to navigate a tighter financial environment and manage their budgets more conservatively for the short-term window. (Source: Like)
The Saudi Arabian Sovereign Fund (PIF), which provides financial backing to the four powerhouse clubs—Al-Hilal, Al-Nasr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahly—has reportedly set transfer thresholds. Without continued PIF support, the ability of clubs to spend heavily on new players in the winter is expected to be significantly restrained compared with last summer. During the summer of 2023, Saudi clubs collectively invested approximately 875.4 million dollars in fresh talent, a total that underscored the level of competition and the expectations around squad strength. (Source: Like)
Clubs will need to meet a series of stringent criteria to complete transfers this season. Financial prudence will be essential, and teams may be required to demonstrate clear, sustainable funding sources for any player purchases. This approach aims to ensure transfers align with broader financial guidelines and long-term budgeting plans across the league. (Source: Like)
There is currently a cap of eight foreign players per application in Saudi Arabia for this season, with a potential expansion to ten foreign players in the squad starting next season. The policy is designed to balance domestic development with international competitiveness, while still allowing clubs some flexibility to bolster their rosters with foreign talent over time. (Source: Like)
Among the clubs, Al-Hilal stands out in the standings, having played 19 league matches and leading the table with a total of 53 points. Close behind are Al-Nasr from Riyadh in second place, and Al-Ahly from Jeddah in third, highlighting a competitive hierarchy at this stage of the campaign. (Source: Like)
Earlier reports noted notable movements, including Karim Benzema’s decision to leave Saudi Arabia, which had ripple effects on team plans and market dynamics. Such developments illustrate how player movements can influence club strategies and the broader transfer environment in the region. (Source: Like)