Saudi Pro League Eyes $400,000 Contracts for Top Football Referees
The Saudi Pro League could soon have superstar referees to officiate games, according to media reports.
After attracting star players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Karim Benzema, the next wave of big-money recruits could be made up of top refereeing talent from the English Premier League and Europe’s elite football competitions.
According to a report in The Times, referees are being approached about potential moves to join the expanding football league in the Kingdom.
Saudi Pro League referees
Just as many of the world’s highest profile players have made a move to Saudi Arabia, referees and match officials could be lured by massive salary increases and the chance to develop football in the Middle East.
The Daily Mail says potential annual salaries of $400,000, triple the going rate in England’s Premier League, are being lined up.
Among the approached referees are officials who have ruled over World Cup, Champions League and Premier League matches. The Times reports that official recruitment efforts will be made within a year.
