Chloe Kelly Doubles Down on Decision to Snub £150 Million Saudi Move Last summer, Commits Future to Arsenal.

Chloe Kelly Doubles Down on Decision to Snub £150 Million Saudi Move Last summer, Commits Future to Arsenal.

 

London, October 13, 2025 — Arsenal forward Chloe Kelly has firmly reiterated her decision to reject a reported £150 million move to Saudi Arabia, citing her commitment to the Women’s Super League and long-term ambitions with Arsenal.

Kelly, 27, who joined Arsenal permanently in the summer after a successful loan spell from Manchester City, is believed to have been the subject of a massive offer from a Saudi Pro League club seeking to boost the profile of women’s football in the region. However, despite the staggering financial incentive, Kelly has made it clear she is not swayed by money alone.

Speaking after Arsenal’s 3–1 win over Chelsea on Sunday, where she scored a brilliant second-half goal, Kelly addressed the speculation head-on.

> “Of course it’s flattering,” Kelly said. “When those kinds of numbers are being thrown around, you know people are paying attention. But I’ve said it before — I’m happy at Arsenal. I’ve fought hard to get back to playing regular football and I’m focused on winning titles here.”

Kelly’s form has been pivotal for Jonas Eidevall’s side this season. Since arriving at Arsenal in January on loan, she has quickly become a fan favourite, known for her pace, work rate, and ability to deliver in big games. Her performances helped Arsenal secure a top-three finish last season, and her permanent move in the summer was seen as a major coup for the North London club.

Saudi Arabia’s interest in women’s football has grown significantly over the past year, with the kingdom making aggressive moves to sign high-profile female players, following the strategy seen in the men’s game. Reports suggest Kelly was offered a two-year deal worth £150 million, including commercial bonuses and ambassadorial roles, as part of a campaign to build visibility for the women’s league in the Gulf state.

Despite the eye-watering sum, Kelly has concerns about the league’s competitiveness, its readiness for elite-level football, and broader ethical concerns regarding women’s rights in the region.

> “Right now, my priorities are about football, legacy, and doing what I love at the highest level,” she said. “The WSL is growing, we’re breaking records for attendances, and Arsenal feels like home. That’s where my head and heart are.”

Her decision has been widely praised by Arsenal fans and women’s football commentators, who view Kelly’s stance as a powerful statement about the importance of staying in competitive environments and pushing the game forward where it already has strong foundations.

Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall also expressed his admiration:

> “Chloe is an exceptional talent and an even better professional. She’s not just a player for now — she’s a player we’re building our future around.”

As the season progresses, Kelly’s focus will be on helping Arsenal challenge for the WSL title and make a strong run in the UEFA Women’s Champions League — goals she has made clear take precedence over any financial windfalls elsewhere.