Ritsu Doan targeted by Al-Ittihad in potential Saudi transfer

Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad has reportedly made a significant offer to acquire Japanese international midfielder Ritsu Doan from Eintracht Frankfurt. According to reports from Sky Sports, the offer includes a potential transfer fee of up to 18 million euros (approximately 3.3 billion yen).

A major factor in the potential move is the financial disparity caused by taxation. While Doan currently plays in Germany, where high income tax rates apply, Saudi Arabia imposes no personal income tax. Estimates suggest that if the move proceeds, Doan could see a net annual income increase of over 1 billion yen compared to his current earnings in the Bundesliga.

While Doan is reportedly open to the move, Eintracht Frankfurt has not yet approved the transfer. Manager Adolf Hütter has indicated a desire to keep the player. Additionally, Doan is currently managing a minor muscle injury, which will cause him to miss the upcoming Bundesliga opening match against Union Berlin.