Lucho Rodríguez Joins NEOM SC In Saudi Arabia After €21 Million Deal

Lucho Rodríguez, the Uruguayan forward, has officially joined NEOM SC in Saudi Arabia. He moved from Brazilian side Bahia in a deal worth around €21 million. This is one of the biggest transfers involving a South American prospect this window.

WHAT HAPPENED?

NEOM SC finalized the deal with Bahia and Rodríguez‘s representatives earlier this week. The club signed the 22-year-old permanently, boosting their attack for a tough season. The player’s agent, Paulo Pitombeira, handled the transfer. This shows NEOM SC’s goal to win top honors after being promoted to the Saudi Pro League. Rodríguez had a strong season at Bahia, with 11 goals and six assists in 30 matches across the 2025 Brazilian Série A and domestic cups. NEOM SC tracked him for months before increasing their interest after Bahia’s season ended. According to reports, NEOM SC has made an offer to Bahia for Uruguay winger Luciano Rodríguez.

BIGGER IMPLICATIONS FOR NEOM SC AND BAHIA

NEOM SC’s investment in Rodríguez shows their big plans after moving to the Saudi top division. The team is 11th after five matches, with two wins and a draw. They are just three points above the relegation zone, showing some early competitiveness. But, they also need more strength in attack. Bahia finished 7th in the 2025 Série A, just missing out on a Copa Libertadores spot. Losing their top scorer is tough, but the large fee helps finances and opens doors for future squad investments. Currently, Bahia must decide whether to accept NEOM SC’s offer for Luciano Rodríguez.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR LUCHO RODRÍGUEZ AND NEOM SC?

NEOM SC’s next match is against Al Ettifaq, a team currently 8th in the Saudi Pro League with two more points than NEOM SC. A win could push NEOM above their mid-table rivals and build momentum for the season. Rodríguez should be registered in time to play, and coach Ahmed Al-Qahtani will likely rely on his creativity and scoring to strengthen the team’s attack. Fans are excited to see how quickly Rodríguez adjusts to Saudi football and if he becomes a key player as NEOM SC aims to secure their place in the league.