Nicolo Barella (foto: Getty Images)
Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella has reportedly turned down a lucrative €20 million annual salary from Al Hilal, preferring to continue his successful career in European football.
Al Hilal, the defending champions of the Saudi Pro League, are looking for a high-profile midfield reinforcement during the winter transfer window. Despite being in second place after eleven rounds, only two points behind league leaders Al Ittihad, the Saudi club is keen on strengthening its squad with a European star. Their target? Nicolo Barella, the 27-year-old Italian international and key player for Inter.
According to reports from Italy, Al Hilal approached Barella’s representatives with an offer of €20 million per year, hoping to lure the midfielder to Saudi Arabia. However, Barella rejected the proposal, signaling his intent to stay with Inter, where he is enjoying regular Champions League action and competing for trophies.
Barella has made it clear that he wants to continue fighting for titles in Europe rather than taking a lucrative deal elsewhere. The respected midfielder remains a crucial part of Inter’s ambitions, with interest from several top clubs across Europe.
Currently, Inter sit in third place in the Serie A standings, trailing leaders Napoli by four points. However, Napoli have played two more matches than Inter. Atalanta occupies second place, just one point ahead, having played one extra match as well. Inter’s next fixture is an away game against Venezia on Sunday, where they will look to close the gap at the top of the table.
Nicolo Barella, a product of Cagliari’s academy, joined Inter permanently in 2020 for €35 million, after initially playing on loan. Since then, he has become a pivotal figure in Inter’s midfield and has helped the club in their quest for domestic and international glory.
(foto: Getty Images)