Saudi League 'determined' to succeed

The Saudi Pro League is "determined to be a success" and will keep splashing the cash to attract some of the biggest names in football, according to one of its top executives.

Clubs in the oil-rich Gulf state have lured global stars, with Karim Benzema, Jordan Henderson and Sadio Mane among those following in Cristiano Ronaldo's footsteps

Last month Al-Hilal made a 300-million-euro ($328 million) bid for Kylian Mbappe, though the Paris Saint-Germain striker reportedly refused to meet with officials from the club.

The influx has taken place despite frequent criticism that Saudi Arabia's lavish spending amounts to "sportswashing" -- an attempt to shift the focus from its record on human rights.

British director Peter Hutton, who sits on the league's board, told the BBC: "I think the budgets are in place for a number of years -- you know, I don't see this slowing down."

He added: "I've worked in sport for 40 years and I've never seen a project as big, as ambitious and as determined to be a success."

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said the Saudi league has "completely changed the market" and he expects more high-profile players to move there.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp fears the late closure of the transfer window in Middle East nation could have a detrimental effect on European clubs.

But Hutton said: "I would say that's not necessarily a bad thing. It's good that football has strength around the world."