In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Brighton & Hove Albion forward Brajan Gruda has signed a lucrative four-year contract worth a staggering $700 million with Al-Hilal, one of the top clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
The deal, which ranks among the most lucrative contracts in football history, underscores the ongoing trend of elite European talent making the switch to the rapidly growing Saudi league. Gruda, who joined Brighton last year and quickly became a fan favorite due to his pace, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess, is now set to embark on a new chapter in the Middle East.
Speaking about the move, Gruda expressed excitement for the opportunity:
“I’m grateful for my time at Brighton, where I grew immensely as a player. Moving to Al-Hilal is a chance for me to experience a new culture, compete at a high level, and contribute to the club’s ambitions. I look forward to bringing my best to the Saudi Pro League.”
Brighton’s head coach Roberto De Zerbi acknowledged the impact of Gruda’s departure:
“Brajan has been a key part of our squad, and while we’re sad to see him go, we understand his desire to take on a new challenge. We wish him all the best in this next phase of his career.”
Gruda’s record-breaking deal is yet another sign of the Saudi Pro League’s aggressive push to attract world-class talent and bolster its reputation as a global football powerhouse. Al-Hilal, already home to several high-profile players, is expected to leverage Gruda’s attacking abilities to dominate domestic competitions and make a significant impact in the AFC Champions League.
The transfer is also seen as a financial coup for Brighton, who reportedly secured a $100 million transfer fee for the 21-year-old forward, which will likely be reinvested in bolstering their squad for the Premier League season.
Gruda is expected to join Al-Hilal in the coming days, with a formal unveiling ceremony planned at the club’s Riyadh headquarters. Fans of both clubs will be eager to see how this blockbuster move shapes the future of their respective teams.
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