#saudi-pro-league

#saudi-pro-league

Jadon Sancho is close to a deadline-day move away from Manchester United (Image credit: Getty Images) The Premier League's summer transfer window closes on Monday with clubs still scrambling to get last-minute deals across the line. Alexander Isak, Jadon Sancho, Emi Martinez and Marc Guehi are just some of the names linked with last-minute moves away from their current clubs, with time running out. But what happens if their transfers fail to materialise before the 7pm deadline, and where else could they go?

Al-Ittihad got their title defence off to a flying start in the Saudi Pro League as they routed Al-Okhdood 5-2 with Karim Benzema scoring a perfect hat-trick. Benzema's treble, as well as a strike from Steven Bergwijn and an own goal from Saeed Al-Rubaie, secured Al-Ittihad the three points in emphatic fashion. Benzema, who found the net on 21 occasions last term, scored his first inside four minutes, with Bergwijn adding a second three minutes later, after his free-kick took a fortuitous deflection.

Al-Ahli kicked off their Saudi Pro League campaign with a 1-0 win at home against Neom. Ivan Toney's composed finish after 23 minutes was enough to separate the two sides on the opening day as Saudi Super Cup champions Al-Ahli are second in the table, following Al-Ettifaq's 2-1 win over Al-Kholood. It was a laboured start from both sides but Al-Ahli sprang into life midway through the first half.

Arsenal are edging closer to yet another signing this summer as they make breakthrough in the deal to sign Eberechi Eze. The Crystal Palace star was destined to joined Arsenal's Premier League rivals Tottenham but the Gunners joined the race and hijacked the deal in the last minute. The player's desire was always to play for the Gunners since he supports them. When Arteta and his team made their move, Eze instantly said yes.

Liverpool have agreed a fee of 53m (46.3m) plus add-ons with Al-Hilal for Darwin Nunez, who is expected to move to the Saudi Pro League.

Mateo Kovacic has been subject to interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, but he remains focused on continuing his journey at the Etihad Stadium.

Liverpool's summer transfer strategy under manager Arne Slot includes bringing in players like Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, while selling key assets like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luis Diaz.

Al Hilal have explored a deal for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, gathering information about the financial details, but no formal contact with Newcastle has occurred.

Hernandez signed a three-year contract with Al-Hilal for a reported €20m after leaving AC Milan, where he made 262 appearances and scored 34 goals.

Lucas Paqueta is seeking a new beginning and is open to offers from Flamengo and Saudi Arabian clubs following a challenging season at West Ham.

Al-Nassr remains committed to signing Luis Diaz from Liverpool, despite the club's firm stance on not selling the Colombian winger this summer.

Pioli guided the Rossoneri to the top-flight title in 2021-22 before departing in May last year in search of a new challenge.