In a seismic move signaling Saudi Arabia’s relentless pursuit of footballing elite, Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al Nassr has tabled a staggering contract offer to Aston Villa manager Unai Emery, The Guardian can exclusively reveal.
The deal, reportedly worth a tax-free £1.2 million per week, includes a luxury Riyadh mansion and unprecedented financial perks, with sources close to the Spaniard claiming he is “seriously tempted” by the proposal.
According to insiders familiar with the negotiations, Al Nassr’s offer dwarfs Emery’s current £7 million annual salary at Villa, promising the 52-year-old a weekly wage that would make him the highest-paid coach in global football. The package also features a lavish five-bedroom mansion in Riyadh’s upscale Diplomatic Quarter, complete with private pools, a gym, and 24/7 security, alongside full tax exemptions—a hallmark of Saudi Arabia’s aggressive recruitment strategy.
“This isn’t just about money; it’s a project,” revealed a source close to the talks. “Unai is intrigued by the vision Al Nassr has laid out. The financial terms are transformative, but the chance to build a legacy in a league attracting global stars is equally compelling.”
The offer comes amid Al Nassr’s push to dominate Asian football, having already signed Cristiano Ronaldo in 2023 and targeted marquee names like Kevin De Bruyne this summer.
Emery, who guided Aston Villa to a historic UEFA Champions League qualification last season, has been pivotal to the club’s resurgence. However, the allure of Al Nassr’s near-limitless resources and the Saudi Pro League’s skyrocketing profile has reportedly given the former Arsenal and Villarreal boss pause. “He’s weighing family stability against a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” added the source.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, are scrambling to retain their prized manager. Club executives are believed to be preparing a improved contract and greater transfer budget to convince Emery to stay. A Villa spokesperson stated: “Unai is fully committed to our project. We’re confident he’ll remain to build on last season’s success.”
The Saudi league’s spending spree has already lured stars like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté, with coaches also in their crosshairs. Al Ittihad’s failed £20 million bid for Jurgen Klopp last summer underscores the league’s ambition to disrupt European football’s hierarchy.
As pressure mounts, Emery is expected to make a decision within days. Should he accept, his departure would send shockwaves through the Premier League and further cement Saudi Arabia’s status as football’s new financial superpower.
