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Liverpool Star’s $51 Million Transfer to Saudi Club Could Shockingly Fall Through Due to Saudi Arabia’s Restrictions for ‘Pets’

Published 07/24/2023, 6:15 AM EDT

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Saudi Arabia has some strict rules. And soccer players might have to be mindful of them. Since Cristiano Ronaldo’s transfer, moving to Saudi Arabia has turned into a lucrative career option for many players. While numerous stars have already set sail, a Liverpool star’s transfer to the Middle East could fall through due to a peculiar reason. His pets might not be allowed in the country!

Saudi clubs have changed the landscape of football by offering financially advantageous contracts to renowned soccer players who ply their trade in Europe. During this transfer window, Saudi Arabian soccer clubs have managed to convince quite a few soccer players to sign contracts. But their rules might have an impact on the sport.

Liverpool midfielder’s transfer to Saudi Arabia might fall through due to his two pet dogs!

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Liverpool midfielder Fabinho’s transfer worth $51 million from Liverpool to Al-Ittihad might be in danger. Jurgen Klopp’s midfield anchor could end up staying in Liverpool due to the breed of his dogs. While the clubs have fully agreed on the transfer along with personal terms, a new barrier has suddenly emerged. The midfield veteran is reportedly seeking clarity if his two pet dogs will be able to accompany him to Saudi.

The Brazilian has two French bulldogs. Unfortunately, Saudi Arabia has strict restrictions on bringing pets into the country. The clause quotes, “Dangerous and aggressive dogs such as Rottweilers and Pits Bulls are not permitted entry into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under any circumstances.” Unfortunately, Fabinho’s four-legged family member’s breed could also come under this category.

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As per the document shared, pet dogs must fall into one of the three categories: hunting, guard, and seeing-eye dogs. However, they have restrictions on breeds that are considered aggressive.

There is a high possibility that the deal could fall through if both parties do not reach an agreement soon. This might be the first time a soccer transfer deal could fall through because of the player’s pets! On the other hand, Fabinho was not the first player to consider leaving Liverpool. After a glorious spell at Liverpool, even Jordan Henderson is close to signing a highly lucrative deal with Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq.

With Saudi Arabian clubs targeting a recruitment drive aimed at Liverpool, the English club has forayed into the transfer market to replace their outgoings with incoming.

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Liverpool’s summer transfer plans in limbo after uncertainty over Fabinho deal

Liverpool endured a disappointing season in the Premier League last season as a potential title-challenging side failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League by finishing in the top four. Midfield reinforcements emerged as a priority going into the summer, especially with their skipper Jordan Henderson and experienced midfielder Fabinho’s potential departures.

The Premier League giants have earmarked Southampton wonderkid, Romeo Lavia as a potential replacement. They offered a sum of £37m on Tuesday in order to finalize the transfer. However, Southampton held strong to their £50m valuation and promptly rejected their bid. Liverpool would have aimed to send in a second bid to secure the transfer. However, their plans might not work out with Fabinho’s deal stuck in limbo.

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If Fabinho’s move to Saudi Arabia doesn’t pan out, recruiting Lavia and bringing in additional reinforcements could prove unnecessary. Liverpool and Al Ittihad will aim to gain more clarity on the future of the Brazilian midfielder. Both clubs can then plan accordingly going into the new season. What do you think about the peculiar reason that Fabinho’s deal could fall through? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Daniel D'Cruz

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Daniel D'Cruz is a soccer writer at EssentiallySports, with a degree in Mass Media studies. He brings a wealth of experience to his writing, having published over 500 articles that cover everything from the dramatic sagas in the world of football to the latest happenings in the entertainment industry. Daniel is a die-hard football fan who has a deep-rooted passion for the game.
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Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra