Saudi clubs are shifting their transfer focus, aiming to attract young talents instead of globally renowned stars.
According to Diario Sport, two players from Barcelona’s youth team are set to continue their careers in Saudi Arabia.
Barcelona seem to be resigned to losing young La Masia prodigy Unai Hernandez, who has emerged as a top target for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad in the current window.
The 20-year-old Unai, the captain of the Barça Atletic team, had been tipped for a bright future at the club given his potential and talents.
However, with his current contract expiring in the summer and there being concerns on the player’s side about a potential lack of first-team chances, he has seemingly opted to move on this window.
The transfer fee is expected to be around €5-6 million and that the negotiations between the two clubs are underway and the operation is in advanced stages.
🚨🟡⚫️ Al Ittihad have sent formal bid to Barça for Unai Hernández worth €4/5m.
Negotiations underway with more steps to follow for Barça B captain to join Saudi Pro League side.
Deal on and advanced. 🔛🇸🇦 pic.twitter.com/kZxnsMYFwZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 27, 2025
This season, Unai Hernández has scored 9 goals and provided 3 assists in 20 matches in Segunda B.
Read: Brentford are calling Barcelona to hire player
Not only Unai Hernandez: Saudi Arabia reportedly eye Pau Prim and Arnau Pradas from Barcelona
🚨🎖| JUST IN: Apart from Unai Hernandez, Saudi clubs are also pushing for Pau Prim, with the player being tempted to leave. Arnau Pradas is also on their radar. [@tjuanmarti] #fcblive 🇸🇦 pic.twitter.com/GtvVONkiB6
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) January 27, 2025
Pau Prim and Arnau Pradas, both of whom have contracts expiring in 2025, are also on the radar Saudi Arabia.
According to SPORT, Prim is already in talks to join Saudi football at the end of the season.
Al-Qadsiah, managed by Michel Gonzalez, is said to be one of the clubs keen on Prim. The club is looking to invest in young talent and see him as a potential addition to their squad.