Source: REUTERS/VINCENT WEST
[Saba Sports News] According to reports from “The Sun,”
Saudi Professional League has made contact with esteemed Premier League referee
Michael Oliver. Oliver himself is open to the possibility of moving to a league
in the Gulf region. As long as the salary is suitable, he is willing to
officiate in the Saudi Professional League until his retirement. In the middle
of this week, Oliver was absent from refereeing the EFL Cup match as he
traveled to the United Arab Emirates to officiate the match between Al Ain and
Sharjah. Data indicates that elite Premier League referees earn annual incomes
ranging from £120,000 to £300,000. However, by joining the referee team of the
Saudi Professional League, Oliver’s annual income could exceed £500,000.
“The Sun” speculates that the financial allure of the Saudi
Professional League may entice a group of Premier League referees to pursue
opportunities in West Asia.