Saudi Arabia clubs to rival Chelsea for Neymar?

Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for Saudi Arabian clubs.

Since making a world record move to Parc des Princes in 2017, Neymar has contributed 118 goals and 77 assists from his 173 appearances in all competitions.

However, as well as injuries leading to a mixed spell at times, the Brazil international has also been criticised by PSG ultras during his latest spell on the sidelines.

At a time when PSG also need to make cutbacks to fulfil FFP criteria, it has been widely claimed that club officials will consider offers for the attacker during the current window.

Manchester United and Chelsea have both been credited with an interest in the 31-year-old, possessing the funds and stature to attract Neymar to the Premier League.

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Nevertheless, much may depend on whether opportunities emerge elsewhere, and it appears that Neymar will be provided with a chance to move to the Middle East.

According to CBS Sports, representatives of Al-Hilal have flown to France to hold discussions regarding a potential transfer.

The report suggests that Neymar would be in line to earn wages similar to Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr if he opted to make the switch to the Saudi Pro League.

Al-Hilal have funds to use on a star player after missing out on the acquisition of Lionel Messi, who has instead decided to move to MLS side Inter Miami.

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Other notable players are being linked with moves to the league, such as Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante, Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Joao Moutinho and Manchester City playmaker Riyad Mahrez.

They would not represent the poster-boy level addition that Al-Hilal want to make, however, as they bid to improve on their third-placed finish last season.

Neymar has two years remaining on his PSG contract and any kind of renewal looks unlikely when the club are adopting a change of strategy with regards to future signings.

Furthermore, the Ligue 1 champions have already agreed to sign Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte for £52m and Real Madrid playmaker on a free transfer.