Marco Verratti inclined to remain at PSG amid interest from Saudi Arabia

Marco Verratti (30) may very well stick around at PSG for a twelfth consecutive season despite interest from PIF-funded Saudi Arabian outfits, according to a report this Saturday from L’Équipe. Last week, Le Parisien broke the news that Al-Hilal were in talks with Les Parisiens over the Italian international midfielder. Al-Hilal’s valuation of Verratti reportedly fell way below Paris Saint-Germain’s. The Italian’s contract with PSG is set to expire in 2026 but his current deal is dependent on the number of games the injury-plagued Euro 2020 winner plays per season.

The French publication understands that newly-appointed Spanish PSG coach Luis Enrique greatly rates Verratti for his technical ability and his capacity to break the opponents’ lines through passing. However, the former Barcelona manager would like the Italian to return to his ideal fitness weight before trusting him with a starting spot in his 3-man midfield. Luis Enrique believes that Les Parisiens will be stronger with Verratti rather than without him. This is the reason why Paris Saint-Germain won’t allow the former Pescara man to leave in exchange for a low transfer fee.

As for Verratti, he is reportedly biding his time. L’Équipe believes that the Italian will move on should PSG strongly indicate to him he is no longer wanted at the Parc des Princes. However, the 30-year-old would rather remain in a competitive environment with a view to reclaiming his spot in the Italian national team.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval