Adelaide United secure more than $1 million for the sale of Socceroos star Craig Goodwin

Socceroos winger Craig Goodwin has been sold by Adelaide United in a deal that has secured the Reds more than $1 million.

Craig Goodwin is leaving Adelaide United to return to Saudi Arabia. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

Socceroos star Craig Goodwin will return to Saudi Arabian club Al-Wahda in a transfer deal set to secure Adelaide United more than $1 million.

While former Melbourne City defender Jordan Bos’ May sale to Belgian club Westerlo for almost $2 million remains the A-League’s record transfer fee, the Goodwin deal is understood to be challenging the $1.4 million Melbourne City received for the sale of Aaron Mooy to Manchester City in 2016.

“It was never really in my plans to leave Adelaide, but this opportunity presented itself and it was an offer that the club and I decided was best for both parties,” the outgoing Reds captain said in confirming his departure.

“I will now have the chance to play alongside some of the best in the world and keep testing my ability, which is what drives me as a professional footballer.”

Among the stars in the lucrative Saudi Pro League are Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema and Riyad Mahrez.

Craig Goodwin has departed Adelaide United. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

It will be 31-year-old Goodwin’s second spell with Al Wahda, having been on the club’s books from 2019 to 2022.

The exciting winger returned to Adelaide on loan in 2021 before rejoining the Reds on a permanent deal last year.

“I’m a South Australia boy, it’s a special place and it’s where I have so many memories, and experiences, and I have made so many lifelong friends from the pitch to the grandstands,” Goodwin said,

“It’s where I started my footballing journey, playing for this club, and representing this state

“To my Adelaide United family, I will be watching and supporting the club as I always have.”

Goodwin netted 60 goals in 168 appearances in all competitions for the Reds, and was among the Socceroos’ scorers at last year’s FIFA World Cup.

Reds coach Carl Veart said: “It goes without saying that this is a loss for us as we all know Craig’s quality and what he has contributed to Adelaide United.

“This is the reality of world football, but we will continue to prepare for the season ahead. “Again, we say thanks to Craig for his services to the club and welcome him back any time.”

Club chairman Ned Morris hailed Goodwin’s “extraordinary contribution to Adelaide United”. “We have hope that when he decides to return to Australia that Adelaide is his first choice,” Morris said.

“Our focus is now on ensuring the best possible performance for our fans as we continue our preparations for the 2023-24 season.”

The Reds, who have two visa player spots left to fill, plan to use some of the money they received from Goodwin’s transfer to buy a winger and an attacking midfielder.