Al Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves revealed that he received offers from Barcelona and Arsenal before leaving Wolverhampton last summer.
The Portugal international admitted he could have remained in Europe, but he eventually opted to make the switch to Saudi Arabia.
He went on to sign for Al-Hilal for €55 million and signed a three-year-deal.
The 26-year-old told O Jogo, as quoted by Tribal Football: "I was close to three clubs and in the end it didn't happen, which saddened me and helped me make the decision to go to Al Hilal.
"I don't want to name names, but Barcelona was one of the hottest and it wasn't a lie. It almost happened, as happened with Arsenal. Then there was another club outside of England.
"These were events that accumulated and then, with this golden opportunity, I had no doubts in accepting it. I was already hardened by transfers that do not happen."
He added: "Playing in Saudi Arabia doesn't make me feel any different compared to my colleagues in Europe. My physical ability is great. I'm on track to one day be able to return to Europe and play at the highest level.
"But, to be honest, I don't plan to return soon. Following this path, Saudi Arabia could have one of the most important leagues in the world within two years."
The SPL has managed to attract a lot of stars in recent months headed by Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema among others.
