The Saudi Pro League is already one of the most talked-about football competitions in the world, thanks in no small part to the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo in January 2023. His move to Al-Nassr was the watershed moment that sparked a domino effect, drawing other global stars such as Karim Benzema, Neymar Jr., N’Golo Kanté, Riyad Mahrez, and Sadio Mané to the Middle East. But while Ronaldo’s presence has elevated the league’s profile, officials are already looking ahead to a future where the Portuguese legend is no longer the face of Saudi football.
According to emerging reports, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane are now at the very top of the Saudi Pro League’s ambitious transfer wishlist. Both players fit into the league’s long-term strategy of maintaining global relevance by attracting world-class footballers in their prime—not just aging stars nearing retirement.
Bruno Fernandes, 30, has established himself as one of the most consistent midfielders in European football. Known for his creativity, vision, and leadership, he has carried Manchester United through difficult periods and is admired worldwide for his tireless work rate. Saudi officials reportedly see him as a perfect player to keep fans engaged, combining technical brilliance with star appeal.
Harry Kane, meanwhile, is widely regarded as one of the best strikers of his generation. Since his high-profile move from Tottenham Hotspur to Bayern Munich, the England captain has continued his incredible goal-scoring form, cementing his reputation as a complete forward. His arrival in Saudi Arabia would not only guarantee goals but also significantly boost the league’s global marketability, especially in the English-speaking world where Kane has massive popularity.
The pursuit of Fernandes and Kane signals a shift in strategy. Rather than relying solely on veteran stars, the Saudi Pro League is intent on building a competitive ecosystem with players who can perform at the highest level for several years. This approach could help the league establish itself not just as a retirement destination but as a legitimate alternative to Europe’s top five leagues.
For now, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the poster boy of Saudi football, but with time catching up, league officials are wisely preparing for a smooth transition. If Bruno Fernandes and Harry Kane were to follow in his footsteps, the Saudi Pro League could cement its reputation as one of the most attractive and ambitious competitions in world football.
