Gabri Veiga Completes FC Porto Move in €15M Deal

Spanish midfielder Gabri Veiga has joined FC Porto. He returns to Europe after two years in Saudi Arabia with Al Ahli. The 23-year-old has already been pictured in Porto’s colors.

WHAT HAPPENED?

FC Porto signed Gabri Veiga from Al Ahli for €15 million, with possible add-ons of €4 million. Porto president André Villas-Boas personally handled the deal. Veiga completed his medical tests and signed a contract until 2030. Pini Zahavi’s agency, Gol International, helped with Veiga’s transfer back to Europe.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Veiga’s move to Saudi Arabia was controversial. He was a top prospect at Celta Vigo and faced criticism for joining Al Ahli, especially from Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos. In the Saudi Pro League, Veiga scored 7 goals and assisted 5 last season. He continued to perform well despite the lower competition level.

SACRIFICE FOR EUROPEAN RETURN

Veiga took a massive pay cut to return to Europe. Reports say he’s reducing his salary by 90%. In Saudi Arabia, he earned about €230,769 weekly (€12 million annually). His move shows his desire to compete at Europe’s highest level instead of settling for a high salary in Saudi Arabia.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR PORTO?

Porto, who were second in the Primeira Liga last season (five points behind champions Sporting Lisbon, three ahead of third-placed Benfica), are strengthening their squad for the next campaign. Veiga’s arrival likely ends their pursuit of Armenian midfielder Eduard Spertsyan. As the Portuguese league starts in August, Porto will seek the league title and compete in the Champions League. Their next preseason game is against Gil Vicente on June 15th, where fans might see Veiga play.