Jamie Carragher fears it will be a ‘game changer’ if ‘one of best players in Europe’ completes mooted Saudi transfer
JAMIE CARRAGHER fears it will be a “game changer” if “one of the best players in Europe” completes a move to Saudi Arabia.
Several huge names have already made the move to the Middle East, starting with veteran Cristiano Ronaldo.
He was followed by Karim Benzema, with N’Golo Kante’s switch confirmed yesterday.
The ex-Chelsea star is now set to be joined in Saudi by three more Blues.
And even 26-year-old Ruben Neves has been lured while entering his prime years in a huge £47million move from Wolves.
But Manchester City Treble winner Bernardo Silva could be the biggest capture of them all.
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At 28 years old, he is considered to be at the peak of his powers - as well as being one of the best players in world football.
Silva has won seven league titles at three different clubs, as well as a Champions League and numerous other trophies.
And an unnamed Saudi side has now reportedly offered him a highly lucrative contract.
Silva is said to be considering his options, with Paris Saint-Germain also keen.
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But Carragher reckons it will be a step too far if someone of Silva’s quality makes the move to the Middle East.
Pal and fellow pundit Gary Neville has already called for the Premier League to block transfers to the Gulf state until an investigation has been made.
And Carragher has also called for “this sports washing to be stopped” while urging Silva to snub the Saudi advances.
He tweeted: “Bernardo Silva is in his peak years and has been one of the best players in Europe for the last five years.
“I wasn’t worried about the Saudi League taking players in their 30s, a touch worried with players below the elite (Neves) but if this happens it feels like a game changer.
“Saudi have taken over Golf, the big Boxing fights and now they want to take over football!
“This sports washing needs to be stopped!”
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