Controversy addled former South Korea centre-back Jang Hyun-soo is set for a windfall after Saudi Professional League giants Al Hilal made the ruthless call to ditch Australia’s Milos Degenek, according to reports.

Jang, 27, has proven a steady performer in his second stint at J1 League leaders FC Tokyo. Impressive form this term has followed a tumultuous spell in which he was roundly criticised for his display in defeat versus Mexico at World Cup 2018, then received a lifetime expulsion in November from the Taeguk Warriors after admitting to falsifying records related to his military exemption.

Nikkan Sports stated on Monday, however, that a lucrative contract offer worth 10.4 million riyals per annum – double his current wage – has been made by the dethroned former SPL champions. This was followed by widespread reports in the Kingdom that the defender is imminently bound for their summer training camp in Lienz, Austria now a €2.5m transfer fee has been agreed.

This is worrying news for January addition Degenek. Arriyadiyah newspaper has insisted new head coach Razvan Lucescu wants him to make way as the Asian-qualified player in the seven-man foreign quota, only six months and 18 appearances since a €3.6m move from Serbia’s Red Star Belgrade.

The Romanian tactician is also reported to desire a reunion with Portugal playmaker Sergio Oliveira, according to Record.

Oliveira, 27, spent the second half of PAOK’s glorious 2018/19 season on loan from Porto. He contributed three goals in 11 appearances to their surprise Greek Super League triumph.