Featured Image Credit: Al Ahli
Topics: La Liga, Liverpool, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Pro League
Josh Lawless
Topics: La Liga, Liverpool, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Pro League
Gabri Veiga has been given a predictably hefty wage increase after his controversial move to the Saudi Pro League.
The Spaniard, one of the top prospects in world football, had a whole host of clubs interested in his services - including the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United.
The 21-year-old was expected to move to a European giant and Napoli looked set to sign Veiga after his impressive 11-goal season for Celta Vigo in La Liga last term.
However, negotiations broke down after Napoli offered a six-year contract which did not include an exit clause.
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The starlet has disappointed many by signing for Al Ahli after they activated his €40 million release clause in full.
Veiga will link up with stars like Riyad Mahrez, Roberto Firmino, Allan Saint-Maximin, Franck Kessie, Roger Ibanez, Merih Demiral and Edouard Mendy.
And according to MARCA, the Spanish Under 21 international will be earning a substantial salary in the Middle East.
If Veiga sees out his three-year contract with Al Ahli, he will make a total of €30 million euros.
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It's worth a whopping TWENTY times more than what he was on at Celta. And crucially, he will be able to leave the club for a new challenge without any obstacles in the future.
Still, such a talented youngster moving to Saudi has been met with plenty of negativity. Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos did not mince his words, branding the transfer "embarrassing".
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The German left the comment on Fabrizio Romano's Instagram post confirming Veiga's move.
With their new recruits firing on all cylinders, Al Ahli have started the Saudi Pro League new season in perfect fashion with three wins from their first three games.
A 96th minute winner from Kessie against Al Akhdoud kept the 100 per cent record in tact. They host Al Ta'ee in their next fixture on Tuesday.