It's not just huge wages that stars can look forward to if they opt to join the growing phenomenon that is the Saudi Pro League - it seems the match travel isn't too shabby either either.
The world's most lucrative league is beginning to exert its influence on world football, amid the frenzied publicity that accompanied Cristiano Ronaldo's £173 million a year move to Al-Nassr in January. And a host of Premier League players are set to follow suit this summer, with the likes of N'Golo Kante, Kalidou Koulibaly and Ruben Neves already confirming moves to the Middle East.
And now one former Manchester United striker, already plying his trade in Saudi, has lifted the lid on further luxuries available for players who move to the top flight. Odion Ighalo, who was on loan at Old Trafford in 2020/21, was the league's top scorer this season after scoring 19 times for Al-Hilal.
The 34-year-old is clearly enjoying his time in Saudi off the field though, as well as on it. He's uploaded a video showcasing how his team, who finished third in the table, travel to away games on a lavish private plane.
In the video, the Nigerian star explores the expansive lounge areas on board, as well as the plane's cockpit and spacious seats. The aircraft also boasts a dining room and a golden throne, where players can essentially position themselves like royalty.
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According to a report in the Daily Mail, the Boeing 747-400 plane is worth more than £170 million, and has been chartered by the likes of Prince Alwaleed bin Talal. The billionaire, who owns three different palaces, is a big supporter of Al-Hilal.
Ighalo's future at the club though, remains in doubt with his contract set to expire this summer and no deal as yet agreed. But there are confirmed new arrivals who can now look forward to an upgrade in transport, as well as weekly wages.
Chelsea star Koulibaly's move to Al-Hilal was confirmed on Sunday, and the Saudi outfit are also hotly pursuing Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva. Despite being just 28, the Portuguese star is reportedly seriously considering a move, prompting concerns on UK shores that the riches available are now attracting elite level players in their prime.
This month, the Saudi Public Investment Fund announce they had acquired 75 percent ownership stakes in four of their country's elite clubs, with champions Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ahli benefitting along with Al-Hilal.
