Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal are making a serious push to acquire another star from the Italian Serie A, with Inter Milan’s Nicolò Barella emerging as their prime target. Following their successful acquisitions of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic from Lazio and former Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly, the Saudi club is now setting its sights on the Italian international midfielder.
Gazzetta dello Sport detail how Al-Hilal’s ambitious plan involves securing Barella’s services by next summer, in time for the Club World Cup in the United States, scheduled to begin on June 15. The club’s representatives reportedly took advantage of Inter’s recent participation in the Italian Supercoppa to initiate preliminary contact with Barella, expressing their interest and outlining the project they envision building around him.
The Saudi club is prepared to offer Barella a multi-year contract with an annual salary of €18 million, tripling his current earnings at Inter. This substantial wage offer demonstrates Al-Hilal’s determination to attract top talent to the Saudi Pro League.
However, it’s important to note that Barella has not expressed any desire to leave Inter Milan at this time. Despite the flattering interest from one of the most prominent clubs in Saudi Arabia and Asia, the 27-year-old midfielder remains committed to the Nerazzurri. Barella extended his contract with Inter just last summer, signing a deal that runs until June 2029 and includes a significant salary increase to €6 million net per season, making him one of the highest-paid players in the Inter squad.
While Al-Hilal’s interest is clear, any potential transfer would likely be explored at the end of the current Serie A season. For now, Barella’s focus remains on his performances for Inter Milan as they continue their campaign in both domestic and European competitions.
