Denis Bouanga is not the first name that comes to mind when you think of the best players in the MLS, but the talented France-born striker had a great year last season, which could pave the way for him to move to an even bigger stage. It’s been hard to focus on any other player since Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami mid-way through last season.
However, Denis Bouanga did not only find his own path. He also ensured to outshine the World Cup winner by winning the Golden Boot for the most goals scored in the 2023 MLS season, more than anyone in the league, and that has caused him to be linked with a move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.
Al-Hilal sets sights on Denis Bouanga as potential Neymar replacement
Al-Hilal took a big chance on injury-prone Neymar by paying a premium to sign him from PSG last summer. Not only did the Saudi club pay a huge fee to acquire the Brazilian star, but they also invested a lot in his contract, making him one of the best-paid players in the world.
However, the move hasn’t worked out so far, with Neymar suffering a season-ending injury on international duty, and reports are now suggesting Al-Hilal may even consider offloading the former Barcelona star.
With Neymar struggling with injury and Al-Hilal fighting to stay at the top of the Saudi Pro League, the club are reportedly looking for an alternative in the profile of Denis Bouanga, who outshined and outscored everyone in the MLS last season.
The Gabon international scored 20 goals and contributed seven assists in 31 games for LAFC last season, which landed him the Golden Boot. His goalscoring exploits have not gone unnoticed, as Al-Hilal are now considering replacing Neymar with the 29-year-old forward.
Bouanga’s signing will strengthen the Al-Hilal forward line, which already has Aleksandar Mitrovic in it, who has scored 17 league goals in 17 appearances this season.
MLS star Denis Bouanga elevates LAFC standards
Lionel Messi had drawn all the attention last summer when he signed for Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar became the biggest name in the history of the league, but while he was struggling with injuries in the latter stages of the season, Denis Bouanga was propelling LAFC into the MLS Playoffs with his 20 league goals and seven assists.
Bouanga’s achievements in the MLS last year also landed him the nomination for the league’s MVP award, which was given to Lionel Messi’s compatriot Luciano Acosta of FC Cincinnati.
Sadly for LAFC, they may lose Denis Bouanga to another club, as several European and Saudi clubs are interested in landing the Gabon star, with Al-Hilal the likeliest destination for the former Saint-Etienne man.
Can Al-Hilal sign Denis Bouanga as Neymar’s replacement this year?
