Malang Sarr chooses Saudi club Neom over Marseille and Rennes

French-Senegalese defender Malang Sarr has turned down several European offers, most notably from Marseille and Rennes, before deciding to join Saudi club Neom on a free transfer after his contract with French side Lens expired, according to sport.fr.

Sport.fr reported that the 27-year-old defender attracted interest from five European clubs, including Marseille, Rennes, Fenerbahce, and Besiktas, while Lens sought to keep him by renewing his contract. Despite the options, Sarr opted for a new challenge in the Saudi Pro League, drawn by Neom’s sporting project and a lucrative financial offer.

Details of Sarr’s move to Neom

According to sport.fr, Neom completed the signing of Sarr on a free transfer, with no fee paid to his former club after his contract with Lens ended. The player reportedly received a substantial salary. The report noted that negotiations were conducted swiftly and discreetly until the official announcement.

Sarr will play under French coach Christophe Galtier, joining a roster that includes former Ligue 1 players such as Alexandre Lacazette, Said Benrahma, and Nathan Zézé, as Neom looks to strengthen its squad ahead of the new season.

Disappointment in France

The report indicated that Sarr’s decision was a blow to Marseille, who had hoped to sign him to bolster their defense, while Lens lost the chance to retain one of their key defenders after failed renewal talks.

Sarr has enjoyed a varied European career, having played for Nice, Chelsea, Monaco, Porto, and Lens. His move to Neom comes as part of a growing trend of European players joining the Saudi league in recent years.