Manchester United could be trading the rainy hills of Manchester for the golden dunes of the Middle East. On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, reports emerged that the
Saudi Pro League (SPL) is preparing a staggering £18 million ($22.5M) offer to host the Red Devils’ 2026 pre-season tour.
Following a season where United struggled financially after missing out on Champions League revenue, this astronomical fee represents a massive lifeline for the club’s balancing act.
The Breakdown: Why This Deal is Gaining Traction
The Financial Gap: After finishing outside the European spots and losing the 2025 Europa League final to Tottenham, United missed out on an estimated £100 million in revenue. An £18m fee for just a few weeks of friendlies is nearly double what they typically earn from traditional tours in the USA or Asia.
The 2026 World Cup Factor: With the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America concluding in July, United’s traditional US tour plans are in disarray. Players will need recovery time, and Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as the perfect high-end, logistical alternative for a shorter, more concentrated August preparation.
The "Ronaldo" Reunion? While Cristiano Ronaldo's future at Al-Nassr has been the subject of speculation (including recent rumors of a "boycott" over league parity), the prospect of United playing his side remains the ultimate commercial "holy grail" for Saudi organizers.
The Current Status: Negotiations & Roadblocks
Detail,StatusThe Offer,£18 Million (Proposed for July/August 2026)
Club Stance,Exploratory. Michael Carrick and the board are weighing the commercial benefits against the intense summer heat and travel fatigue.
Previous Precedent,United previously scrapped mid-season Saudi plans in early 2026 to focus on domestic form.
The Competition,"Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ittihad are all reportedly interested in hosting specific exhibition matches."
Manager's View: While former boss Ruben Amorim was open to such "revenue-building" trips, current head coach Michael Carrick has been more cautious, recently opting to keep the squad in Manchester during the winter break to focus on "recharging batteries."