Geovany Quenda: Al Hilal Eye Ambitious move for Sporting Lisbon Starlet | OneFootball

Al Hilal are reportedly setting their sights on Sporting Lisbon’s teenage prodigy Geovany Quenda as they continue to reinforce their squad with an eye on young talent. The Saudi Arabian giants are eager to bring the 17-year-old forward to the Saudi Pro League, utilising their designated under-21 slots to secure one of Portugal’s most exciting prospects.

This development comes just months after Geovany Quenda renewed his contract with Sporting Lisbon until 2027. The new deal includes a hefty €100m release clause, a clear signal of the club’s belief in his potential. Despite his limited experience, Geovany Quenda’s performances at youth level and his progression in Sporting’s ranks have already attracted widespread admiration, with high-profile figures like João Cancelo singing his praises.

A Talent Worth the Attention

Born in Lisbon, Quenda has been part of Sporting’s academy since the age of 10. Quenda is known for his pace, sharp technical ability, and a keen eye for goal, he’s already made waves in Portugal’s youth leagues. His versatility allows him to operate across the front line, though his preference lies in cutting in from the flanks to unleash his powerful shot. Having made his debut for Sporting last season under Man United’s now manager Ruben Amorim, he has continued to flourish.

João Cancelo, who knows a thing or two about Portuguese talent, recently spoke highly of Geovany Quenda. The Al Hilal defender stated,

Cancelo’s comments highlight the anticipation surrounding Geovany Quenda, especially as he edges closer to his first senior international appearance for Portugal.

Al Hilal’s Long-Term Strategy

Al Hilal have become synonymous with high-profile transfers since the Saudi Pro League’s recent transformation, signing stars such as Neymar, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Aleksandar Mitrović. However, their interest in Quenda signals a more strategic approach, targeting emerging players alongside established names.

Saudi Pro League rules allow clubs to register up to eight foreign players, including a designated number of under-21 talents. Bringing in Quenda would align with this structure and potentially secure Al Hilal a future superstar. While Quenda is unlikely to make an immediate impact similar to Malcom or Aleksandr Mitrovic, his arrival would bolster the club’s long-term ambitions.

The challenge for Al Hilal lies in persuading Sporting Lisbon to part with their prized asset. With the Portuguese side keen to develop Quenda into a first-team regular, they are unlikely to entertain offers below his release clause of €100m.

Sporting Lisbon’s Stance on Geovany Quenda

Sporting’s academy has long been a hotbed of talent, producing players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Luís Figo, and more recently, João Palhinha. The club’s commitment to nurturing young players is evident in Quenda’s recent contract extension, which includes a release clause designed to deter suitors.

For Sporting, losing Quenda prematurely would be a blow. However, with Saudi clubs offering lucrative packages to players and their families, the prospect of a move could appeal to the youngster, despite his limited senior experience.

Can Quenda Resist the Lure of Saudi Arabia?

For any young player, the financial lure of the Saudi Pro League is impossible to ignore. Clubs like Al Hilal have made headlines for offering extraordinary contracts that dwarf what most players could earn in Europe, even at prestigious clubs. While Geovany Quenda is just 17, it’s not unheard of for Saudi clubs to put forward packages that can transform not just a player’s life but also that of their family.

If Al Hilal are serious about bringing Geovany Quenda to Riyadh, the financial offer could be staggering. Even without meeting his €100m release clause, they could propose a deal worth millions in wages, along with significant bonuses and benefits. For comparison, recent moves to Saudi Arabia have seen players earning millions per year—figures that are unimaginable for a teenager just breaking through in Europe.

At Sporting Lisbon, Quenda would likely be earning a fraction of that, as most youth contracts in Portugal are relatively modest. While Sporting can promise him a steady rise through their ranks and a path to Europe’s elite competitions, it’s unlikely they could match the immediate financial reward Al Hilal might offer.

For Quenda and his advisors, the choice would not only be about money but also his development. A move to Saudi Arabia could set him up for life financially, but it might also limit his exposure to top-level competition at a critical stage of his growth. While Al Hilal can promise a chance to train and play alongside stars like João Cancelo, Sergej Milinković-Savić and potentially Mohamed Salah in the summer, the Saudi Pro League still lacks the intense competitiveness of European leagues, where players are regularly tested against the world’s best. In a recent match, Al Hilal beat Al Fateh 9-0. Despite its growth, the league’s quality still needs improvement, particularly as some clubs receive support from the Sports Ministry while others fall behind.

Geovany Quenda on the move?

While Al Hilal are yet to submit a formal bid for Geovany Quenda, serious discussions are reportedly taking place in Saudi Arabia about making the move happen this transfer window. It’s a bold statement of intent from the Saudi Pro League, showcasing their desire not just for global stars but also for the brightest young prospects in football.

For Sporting Lisbon, the challenge will be holding firm against the financial power of Al Hilal while ensuring Quenda remains focused on his development. However, with the Saudi side known for swift and decisive negotiations, the possibility of Quenda swapping Lisbon for Riyadh is very real.

As talks intensify, fans of both clubs will wait eagerly to see how this unfolds. Will Sporting’s faith in their young star prevail, or will Al Hilal’s growing influence in world football lure Quenda away before he’s even had the chance to break through fully in Portugal? This transfer window could provide the answer.