As one of the best midfielders in the world, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic had been linked with leading European clubs for quite a long time. The Lazio talisman's surprising refusal to extend his contract, which expires in 2024, had greatly intensified the probability of him departing this summer. 

Nevertheless, just as many believed that the 28-year-old Serbian star was going to join either Italian giants AC Milan or Juventus, both of whom had been pursuing him for a while, a club from Saudi Pro League made an official announcement of his signing on Wednesday, causing quite a stir. 

Al-Hilal posted a video via their Twitter account of Milinkovic-Savic's father looking at photos of his son, who is seen donning his new team's jersey. It was accompanied by a voiceover saying, "Coming from Italy's eagles. Savic represents Asia's Leader." 

Al-Hilal are one of the the most decorated club in Asia, having won a record four AFC Champions Leagues and 18 Saudi titles. They have already brought in Wolves captain Ruben Neves and Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly during this transfer window. 

According to multiple media outlets, Al-Hilal spent around 40 million euros ($44.51 million) for their latest deal, and Milinkovic-Savic put pen to paper on a three-year contract with option for a fourth that is believed to be worth a stunning 20 million euro per season. 

"It is difficult to find the right words to say goodbye…" Milinkovic-Savic wrote on his Instagram after the transfer was announced. 

"It has been eight years since my arrival and I can never forget all that we went through together. The Coppa Italia, the two Super Cups, all the goals and assists... 

"All this will never be forgotten and I will always carry it in my heart. Lazio and our people together with all the teammates I worked with over the years, it was a real family. 

"I learned so much here and became the man I am today. Thanks also to the coaches and all the staff that worked with us, and to the fans who with their passion helped us achieve results that seemed impossible. 

"The last joy was qualifying for the Champions League and I hope all of you achieve many more great things. 

"Forza Lazio! You will always be my second home."

Milinkovic-Savic joined a long queue of big names who swapped European football for the riches of Saudi Arabia. 

Nine-time Saudi champions Al-Nassr grabbed the headlines in January when they signed five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo after his Manchester United exit. Inter Milan captain Marcelo Brozovic also made the move to join the Portuguese superstar this summer. 

Al-Hilal's arch-rivlas Al Ittihad, meanwhile, made their presence felt by signing Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema and Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante. Ex-Liverpool legend Roberto Firmino and former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy have moved to three-time Saudi champions Al Ahli.