Spurs and Liverpool on Red Alert as Marcos Leonardo Considers Saudi Exit

While the Saudi Pro League has become a destination not only for aging stars but also for high-potential youngsters in recent years, the brightest representative of this trend, Marcos Leonardo, is preparing to become the "mega-bomb" of the 2026 summer transfer window. 

His unstoppable performance in an Al-Hilal shirt has once again made the Brazilian striker the number one target for European giants, particularly Tottenham and Liverpool from the Premier League's "Big Six."

Al-Hilal’s Strategic Fortress

For the Al-Hilal management and head coach Simone Inzaghi, Marcos Leonardo is not just a centre forward; he is the most precious diamond in the club's project to build global brand value through young talent.

According to information leaked from the Al-Hilal camp, the management is extremely satisfied with Leonardo’s presence in the squad. 

For the 22-year-old player, who perfectly executes the "mobile striker" role in Simone Inzaghi’s tactical setup, the club’s initial reaction is: Not for sale. The club plans to maintain squad stability ahead of the 2026 FIFA Club World Cup and use Leonardo as a lead actor on this grand stage.

The Valuation Barrier

Although Al-Hilal is under no financial pressure, rejecting a staggering offer from Europe could be seen as defying "commercial logic." 

It is rumoured that the floor price the club expects to even sit at the table is in the £50–£55 million range.

The Player’s Psychological Status

While Leonardo is happy in Saudi Arabia, he dreams of wearing the number 9 shirt for the Brazilian National Team at the 2026 World Cup. 

Knowing that the path to this dream passes through a high-profile league like the Premier League, it is stated that the player may exert "gentle but firm" pressure on the management for a departure. If the player submits a formal transfer request, it is predicted that Al-Hilal’s rigid stance may soften.

Premier League Lens

It is known that Tottenham wants to permanently close the "clinical" void left after Harry Kane with Leonardo. 

Leaked reports suggest Spurs scouts have watched the player live in Riyadh numerous times and filed reports stating he is "100% compatible with Premier League rhythm."

With Richarlison already eyeing a return to Brazil amid unrest during Tottenham’s relegation worries, a revival under new boss Roberto De Zerbi could open the door for Leonardo to arrive as his long-term replacement.

In addition, Liverpool wants to rejuvenate the rotation in its attacking line and revitalise the Brazilian tradition. Leonardo’s ability to function both as a central striker and a "false nine" is an invaluable trait for Liverpool’s fluid frontline. Liverpool’s biggest trump card in this transfer is the "Champions League and trophy-guaranteed" project they can offer the player. Additionally, the club’s historical ties with Brazilian players may lead Leonardo to favour a move to Anfield.

Contract Details and Financial Background

Leonardo’s contract with Al-Hilal expires on June 30, 2029. This long-term deal explains why Al-Hilal can play the role of such a "resolute seller" at the bargaining table. The absence of any "release clause" in the contract confirms that the transfer is entirely dependent on club approval.

Currently earning approximately £83,000 per week in Riyadh, it is claimed the player wants to reach "elite striker" status in the Premier League by pushing his salary to the £125,000–£150,000 per week level.

Al-Hilal aims to maintain the league's popularity by filling the void left by a potential Leonardo departure with another "superstar" whose contract is ending in Europe (such as Mohamed Salah or a similar name).