Rio Ferdinand: "I would have gone to Saudi Arabia in my prime"

Rio Ferdinand has conceded that during his prime playing years, he might have considered a move to Saudi Arabia, but with a caveat - only if he had already secured significant European trophies and accolades.

Speaking from the sidelines just before Arsenal's Premier League kick-off against Nottingham Forest, the former Manchester United defender was asked to discuss Saudi Arabia's impact on the transfer market. The legendary centre-back had no problems saying what most people think anyway - that financial aspect of the Saudi Pro League cannot be ignored.

"The context is really important. If I was a young player who was on the cusp of winning trophies and I hadn't yet I think I would've been able to say no. I genuinely believe I would've said no because I dreamed of winning things in the Premier League or Europe. But if I was 27 or 28 years old and I'd won a couple of things, with that in my mind and the numbers we're talking about, I would have gone. There's no doubt in my mind. I can 100 per cent, wholeheartedly say that."

Bobby's on fire! That's how you announce yourself at a new club!

Prominent figures such as Karim Benzema, Sadio Mane, and N'Golo Kante have made transfers to the Gulf state this summer. However, they are all in their thirties and boast triumphs on the biggest stage. Sometimes, a day comes when you get the chance to try something new and get paid really well for it. We can testify that numerous sporting figures cannot refuse offers like that.