Saudi Arabian club Jeddah National is at the heart of a transfer controversy, as their planned acquisition of Brazilian striker Richarlison has sparked intense protests among fans and internal dissent within the club, according to a report from Spanish newspaper AS.
Spanish media outlet AS reports that the transfer was driven by Michael Emenalo, chairman of the Saudi League’s transfer committee, who has been working to enhance the league’s overall level by bringing in top European players. However, this particular transfer plan has not received unanimous support, with Jeddah National’s fanbase expressing strong opposition.
Fans have launched a social media campaign to reject the signing of Richarlison, expressing dissatisfaction with the €70 million transfer fee. Their primary concerns include Richarlison’s injury history – he has sustained 14 injuries since May 2022 – and his lackluster scoring record at Tottenham, with 15 goals in 66 appearances. These factors, combined with the hefty transfer fee, have led fans to question the rationality of this investment.
Richarlison has been linked with a move to the Saudi League alongside Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus. Jeddah National are in urgent need of reinforcement in their forward line after losing Allan Saint-Maximin to a transfer to Turkey. Despite initially stating his reluctance to leave England, Richarlison eventually changed his mind and expressed willingness to join Jeddah National.
If this transfer ultimately comes to fruition, Richarlison will join a star-studded squad featuring Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, Gabriel Veiga, Franck Kessie, and Edouard Mendy. However, with fierce opposition from fans and uncertainty within the club, the success of this transfer remains uncertain.
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