French Star Rejects €30m-a-Year Offer; Demands Record-Breaking Pay Rise
The future of the world’s current best player is shrouded in uncertainty. Ousmane Dembélé, fresh from winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or, has reportedly rejected an initial contract renewal offer from Paris Saint-Germain. While the Parisian club tabled a staggering €30 million per season, the French winger is holding out for double that amount approximately €60 million annually.
The Saudi Threat: A New Destination for the World’s Best?
According to L’Equipe and Footmercato, the stalemate has alerted the Saudi Pro League. If Dembélé and PSG cannot find common ground, market analysts suggest a move to Saudi Arabia is a “very real scenario.” With the Saudi league looking to add the reigning Ballon d’Or holder to their ranks alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, they would likely have no issue meeting his massive salary demands.
PSG’s New Policy: No More “Exorbitant” Wages
Despite Dembélé’s talismanic status, the PSG hierarchy is standing firm. The club is determined not to return to the era of “out-of-context” salaries seen during the days of Messi, Neymar, and Mbappé.
“We will not return to salaries that jeopardize the club’s financial and social equilibrium,” a club source stated, emphasizing their commitment to a sustainable wage structure.
Tensions with Luis Enrique?
The contract dispute isn’t the only hurdle. Reports from CanalPlus suggest underlying tension between Dembélé and manager Luis Enrique. Despite their success on the pitch including a historic continental treble rumors of frustration over playing time and tactical roles have added fuel to the fire regarding a potential summer exit.
Dembélé by the Numbers (2025/26 Season):
- Current Market Value: €100 Million
- Contract Expiry: June 2028
- 2024/25 Stats: 35 Goals, 16 Assists (Ballon d’Or winning campaign)
- Status: Current UEFA Champions League MVP
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
