Al-Hilal Offers R$321 Million for Richard Ríos — Palmeiras Star Close to Record-Breaking Transfer
Saudi giants set to outbid European clubs for Colombian midfielder after Club World Cup heroics
Richard Ríos may be playing his final matches for Palmeiras, as Al-Hilal is reportedly ready to pay €50 million (R$321 million) to sign the Colombian midfield sensation. Talks are said to be advanced, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, and a deal could happen immediately after the FIFA Club World Cup.
From Palmeiras Hero to Saudi Priority
Ríos has been one of Palmeiras’ standout performers in 2025, and his performances at the Club World Cup have caught the attention of major clubs but it’s Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, fresh off a stunning 4–3 win over Manchester City, who have made the most aggressive move.
After failing to land Bruno Fernandes, coach Simone Inzaghi reportedly made Ríos the club’s top transfer target, seeing him as the perfect midfield engine for the next phase of Al-Hilal’s superteam project.
Al-Hilal vs. Palmeiras — Then a Deal?
There’s an extra layer of drama: the two clubs could actually face each other in the Club World Cup semifinals. If Palmeiras beats Chelsea and Al-Hilal eliminates Fluminense, Ríos might face his future team before signing the dotted line.
Negotiating a transfer under such circumstances would be unprecedented especially as both clubs chase a historic World Cup title.
Richard Ríos in 2025
- Age: 25
- Position: Midfielder
- Appearances: 34
- Goals: 4
- Assists: 2
- Estimated Transfer Fee: €50M (R$321M)
Al-Hilal’s South American Revolution
If signed, Ríos would join a growing list of South American stars at Al-Hilal, including:
- Marcos Leonardo – Former Santos forward, scored twice vs. Man City
- Renan Lodi – Former Atlético Madrid left-back
- Malcom – Ex-Barcelona winger
- Kaio César – Emerging Brazilian talent
Al-Hilal’s ambition is clear: build a world-class team with global talent and Ríos could be the engine in their midfield.
