Porto Rejects Al Ittihad's €63M Bid for Rising Star Rodrigo Mora

FC Porto has firmly rejected a €63 million offer from Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad for their 18-year-old prodigy Rodrigo Mora, insisting on the activation of his €70 million release clause. The failed transfer bid, reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, highlights a rare misstep in Saudi Arabia’s aggressive pursuit of young European talent, backed by the Public Investment Fund’s substantial financial muscle.

Negotiations between the clubs broke down after Al Ittihad proposed €63 million plus 10% of Mora’s future economic rights, falling short of Porto’s valuation. The Portuguese club, known for nurturing and retaining top prospects, stood firm, reflecting a strategic approach to protect its assets. Mora, an attacking midfielder who recently impressed in UEFA youth competitions, has attracted interest from several European giants, including PSG, though no formal bids have emerged.

The rejection underscores growing tensions between European clubs and the Saudi Pro League, where valuations often clash with traditional football markets. Al Ittihad’s internal debates over the €70 million price tag suggest a potential shift in their transfer strategy, while Porto’s stance may signal Mora’s continued development with the Dragons, at least for now.