An FC Barcelona star has reportedly rejected a big-money move to Saudi Arabia due to political reasons.
Sergi Roberto's contract is set to expire at the end of the current season, but while he may be on the hunt for a new club, the possibility of him moving to the Saudi Pro League can be ruled out, according to Mundo Deportivo.
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While current Blaugrana manager Xavi is said to have been in support of the idea of extending the Barca youth product's stay at the club with a new deal, his future at the Camp Nou remains unclear after the tactician confirmed that he would be leaving the Camp Nou at the end of the season.
Reports suggested that Saudi First Division side Al Qadsiah FC, who are under the guidance of Spanish manager Michel, tabled what is said to have been a lucrative offer for the 32-year-old.
The Knight of the East are currently top of the division, eight points ahead of second-placed Al Kholood, and are on course to earning a promotion to the country's top flight.
Despite their desire to add a former Barca star to their ranks next season, however, Roberto will seemingly not be a part of their plans.
The player is married to Israeli model Coral Simanovich, and it is believed that his wife's nationality is part of the reason he rejected the opportunity, with Saudi Arabia said to be backing Palestine in its ongoing conflict with Israel.
According to reports, Roberto's family feel that making the move would not be a good idea as a result.
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The midfielder, though, said to be keen on a move to the US to play Major League Soccer, where his former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez all now ply their trade.
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