In July 2023, it was reported by Front Office Sports that Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal soccer club, predominantly funded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), had made a monumental offer of $1.1 billion to secure Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). This impressive proposal included a $332 million transfer fee and a $776 million salary for a single season, which would have significantly increased Mbappe net worth and positioned him as the highest-paid athlete in history.
Currently, Kylian Mbappe net worth is an impressive $180 million. This remarkable sum reflects his successful career in football, both on the field and in his off-pitch endeavors.
The ambitious move by Al-Hilal to acquire Mbappe, which would have remarkably enhanced Mbappe net worth, was characterized by an unprecedented transfer sum to PSG and a record-breaking salary offer for the French star. This was part of Saudi Arabia’s aggressive push into global soccer, following the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo by Al-Nassr and a substantial, earlier offer to Lionel Messi, which had the potential to considerably boost Messi’s net worth. Had it been successful, Mbappe’s proposed $776 million salary would have surpassed the previous highest athlete salary record held by Lionel Messi, who received $674 million over four years from FC Barcelona in 2017.
This initiative reflected Saudi Arabia’s strategic investments in soccer, a trend marked by Ronaldo’s $214 million annual contract with Al-Nassr over 2.5 years. Before the offer to the Frenchman, which would have dramatically increased Mbappe’s net worth, Al-Hilal had reportedly proposed a $1.6 billion deal to Messi for a three-year period, though he eventually chose a less lucrative deal with Inter Miami in MLS. The restructuring of Saudi Pro League clubs like Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, with majority ownership by the Public Investment Fund, was a part of this investment wave.
Lionel Messi’s Historic Summer Offer: Al Hilal’s Bid Overturned for Inter Miami Move
Last summer, the football world was abuzz with the news of Lionel Messi’s departure from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), igniting the transfer market. While there were talks of a nostalgic return to Barcelona, and Messi himself seemed inclined towards Catalonia, an extraordinary proposal emerged from Saudi Arabia. Al Hilal, reportedly, was on the verge of securing the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner with a staggering offer of 1.2 billion euros for a two-year contract. This period at PSG, though marked by impressive statistics including 16 league goals and significant Champions League contributions, was tinged with criticisms from PSG fans over Messi’s perceived lack of motivation and defensive involvement.
The main speculation centered around Messi’s next destination following his prolific tenure at PSG. Despite Barcelona remaining a sentimental favorite, the financial constraints of the Catalan club cast doubt on his possible return. In a surprising turn of events, Al Hilal stepped in with what would have been the largest contract in football history, offering a sum double that of Cristiano Ronaldo’s then-current earnings. This move, had it materialized, would have set a new precedent in football transfers.
However, Messi ultimately chose a different path. Despite the confident stance of Al Hilal and their anticipation of announcing Messi’s arrival in Riyadh, the Argentine superstar decided against joining the Saudi club. Instead, he turned down this historic offer to join Inter Miami CF, marking another significant chapter in his illustrious career.
This decision not only left Al Hilal’s monumental offer unaccepted but also changed the dynamics of the anticipated on-field reunions between Ronaldo and Messi, reminiscent of their iconic Clasico battles. Messi’s Inter Miami move, coming after his eighth Ballon d’Or win in October 2023, further underscores the evolving landscape of global football, showcasing the allure and appeal of new football frontiers over traditional powerhouses.
Lucrative PSG Deal: A Deep Dive into Mbappe Net Worth
Kylian Mbappe’s net worth has seen a substantial boost with his latest contract extension at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), inked in June 2022. This contract, directly impacting Mbappe’s net worth, spans three years and includes a lucrative financial package. Specifically, Kylian Mbappe’s net worth benefits from a base salary of approximately $53 million annually under this PSG contract.
This salary figure is notably on par with Lionel Messi’s earnings during his time in Miami, highlighting the high value placed on top football talent. In addition to the salary, Mbappe net worth is further bolstered by a significant $106 million signing bonus. Altogether, the total value of Mbappe’s contract with PSG amounts to a striking $266.5 million, a key factor in the growth of Mbappe net worth.
When compared to the Al Hilal offer, which reportedly was around $1.1 billion for a two-season contract, Mbappe’s net worth could have seen an even more dramatic increase. However, Mbappe’s decision to wear PSG jersey next season, while less lucrative in immediate terms, reflects his career choices and priorities beyond just the financial aspect. The PSG contract, while substantial, falls short of the astronomical figures from Al Hilal, but it still represents a significant commitment by PSG to Mbappe and a noteworthy contribution to Mbappe net worth.
Al Hilal’s High-Profile Roster: A Dream Team in the Making
Al Hilal’s summer signings have been nothing short of spectacular, assembling a roster that, with the speculated addition of Kylian Mbappe, whose net worth stands at an impressive $180 million, would have been a formidable force in international football, even capable of challenging in the UEFA Champions League.
Neymar Jr., a former PSG teammate of Mbappe, was one of the standout signings. Neymar, with a net worth estimated at $250 million, has consistently demonstrated his world-class abilities on the field. The switch of Neymar jersey to Al Hilal’s blue marked a significant milestone, showcasing the club’s ambitious aspirations. This move mirrored the high-profile status similar to the impressive value of Mbappe’s net worth.
Bono, the former Sevilla goalkeeper and a standout performer for Morocco in the 2022 World Cup semifinals, was another significant signing. His notable achievements include being a nominee for the Ballon d’Or 2023, further emphasizing his skill and reputation in the sport. His impressive displays in La Liga and on the international stage have cemented his status as a top goalkeeper, enhancing the team’s defensive backbone.
Kalidou Koulibaly, previously with Chelsea, also joined Al Hilal. Known for his strong defensive prowess, Koulibaly’s addition was seen as a strategic move to bolster the club’s backline. His experience in the Premier League and Serie A added a new dimension to Al Hilal’s defense.
Ruben Neves, who transferred from Wolverhampton Wanderers, brought his midfield expertise to the team. Neves is celebrated for his control and vision in the midfield, qualities that are crucial for a team aiming to compete at the highest levels of European football.
Sergej Milinković-Savić from Lazio, Malcom from Zenit, and Aleksandar Mitrović from Fulham were also among the notable signings. Each of these players brought their unique skills and experiences, contributing to a squad that, combined with a player of Mbappe’s caliber, would undoubtedly have been a strong contender in the UEFA Champions League.
Experience the Spectacle: Mbappe’s Autumn 2023 Goal Highlights:
However, despite the lucrative offer that would have significantly boosted Mbappe’s net worth, the deal ultimately did not materialize, and Mbappe remained with PSG. This outcome left the record-breaking offer as a notable episode in the history of soccer transfers, showcasing the vast financial power and investment interests of Middle Eastern nations in the sport. The negotiations, had they been successful, would have marked a significant financial exchange between two oil-rich countries, both actively pursuing expansive investments in the sports sector.