Match story
- Al-Ittihad FC fired more attempts (11 vs 8 shots).
- Al-Ittihad FC was more accurate in front of goal (36% on target vs 25%).
- Al-Ahli Jeddah held more of the ball (54% possession).
Al-Ahli Jeddah defeated Al-Ittihad FC 1-0 in Pro League. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 26 stage in the 2023 season. The match was played at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. R. Obrenović officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Al-Ahli Jeddah vs Al-Ittihad FC meeting in Pro League with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Al-Ahli Jeddah and Al-Ittihad FC. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Pro LeagueRecorded meetings: 8 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Al-Ahli Jeddah defeated Al-Ittihad FC 1-0 in Pro League. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 26 stage in the 2023 season. The match was played at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. R. Obrenović officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Al-Ahli Jeddah vs Al-Ittihad FC meeting in Pro League with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Al-Ahli Jeddah and Al-Ittihad FC. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Pro LeagueRecorded meetings: 8 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Met police say charge relates to alleged assault that reportedly took place in December at venue in LondonThe England footballer Ivan Toney has been charged with assault after an incident at a nightclub in Soho in December last year.Scotland Yard said the striker had been charged on 31 July with assault causing actual bodily harm. Toney, who plays for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, is due to appear at Westminster magistrates court on 24 September. Continue reading...
While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad's summer recruitment strategy. Cristiano Ronaldo has unexpectedly found himself connected to one of the biggest transfer stories involving one of Al-Nassr’s fiercest Saudi Pro League rivals. While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad’s summer recruitment strategy. The latest move has raised eyebrows across the league, especially as Al-Ittihad moved quickly to strengthen its squad while Al-Nassr is still waiting to complete its first major signing of the transfer window. Ronaldo’s investment outside Saudi Arabia has now played an indirect role in helping one of the club’s biggest domestic competitors. Al-Ittihad has officially completed the signing of Senegal midfielder Dion Lopy from Spanish club Almeria, making him the club’s first overseas arrival of the summer transfer window. According to reports from Al-Riyadiah and several other outlets, the 24-year-old signed a long-term contract after the Tigers agreed to pay approximately $15 million, with the transfer fee scheduled to be paid in installments. The deal also reportedly includes a 10% sell-on clause in favor of Almeria should Lopy be transferred again in the future. The Tigers’ midfield is under the Black Panther’s command 🇸🇳🐅 pic.twitter.com/wDtEPNLc6U— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 The Saudi club confirmed the transfer through an announcement on its official social media channels, although it did not disclose the financial details. Ronaldo’s Almeria investment creates unexpected link The transfer carries an unusual twist because Almeria is partially owned by Cristiano Ronaldo. Earlier in 2026, Ronaldo acquired a 25% ownership stake in the Spanish club, expanding his soccer portfolio while continuing his playing career with Al-Nassr. That investment means one of Ronaldo’s clubs has now completed a profitable sale to Al-Ittihad, a direct Saudi Pro League rival that continues to challenge Al-Nassr for domestic honors. The timing has attracted attention because Al-Ittihad has already secured its first major foreign signing, while Al-Nassr has yet to bring in a new player during the current transfer window. Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al-Nassr FC competes for the ball with Ahmed Al-Julaydan of team Al-Ittihad FC The Senegal international joins Al-Ittihad following the departure of Brazilian midfielder Fabinho, whose contract expired at the end of last season. Lopy primarily operates as a defensive midfielder, although he is also capable of playing in a deeper central role. His versatility is expected to provide additional balance in midfield as the club prepares for the upcoming Saudi Pro League campaign. Since arriving at Almeria from Stade Reims in 2023, Lopy made 105 appearances, scoring four goals and contributing six assists across all competitions. Tansfer that benefits everyone The midfielder built a reputation in Spain through his physical presence, defensive awareness and ability to recover possession. During the 2025-26 campaign, he featured regularly in midfield while also contributing going forward with three goals and two assists in league competition. Statistical reports highlighted his impact in defensive situations, including strong numbers for tackles, interceptions, ball recoveries and aerial duels. His passing range also made him an attractive option for a possession-based side looking to strengthen its midfield. From the Land of Teranga 🇸🇳 to the Tigers’ Den 🐅 pic.twitter.com/9qz0cG9wQO— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 For Al-Ittihad, the signing addresses an important gap left by Fabinho’s departure while adding an experienced international midfielder entering
While Lionel Messi remains among the world's highest earners, the newest rankings reveal that the Portuguese icon has stretched his advantage, highlighting the growing financial influence of Saudi Arabian soccer. Cristiano Ronaldo continues to dominate the financial landscape, with the latest global salary figures placing him comfortably ahead of the sport’s biggest stars. While Lionel Messi remains among the world’s highest earners, the newest rankings reveal that the Portuguese icon has stretched his advantage, highlighting the growing financial influence of Saudi Arabian soccer. The latest data also underlines how dramatically the sport’s salary landscape has evolved in recent years. Players representing the Saudi Pro League now occupy several places among the world’s best-paid players, while stars from Europe’s biggest leagues continue to feature prominently. According to salary figures compiled by Capology, via Planet Football, Cristiano Ronaldo earns an estimated £3.42 million per week in base salary at Al-Nassr, keeping him at the top of world soccer’s wage rankings. The report states: “Cristiano Ronaldo still ranks as the highest-paid player in the Saudi Pro League and world football, earning a whopping £3.4 million per week with Al-Nassr.” Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates with the Saudi Pro League Trophy. Those figures are based solely on base wages and do not include bonuses, image rights, signing fees or commercial endorsements, meaning Ronaldo’s overall annual earnings are significantly higher. Messi returns to the rankings The latest list also marks Lionel Messi’s return to the global weekly salary rankings following his move to Inter Miami. Messi is ranked 13th with an estimated weekly base salary of £360,876, leaving a remarkable financial distance between the longtime rivals. While both remain among soccer’s biggest global icons, the latest figures illustrate how Ronaldo’s Saudi contract has transformed the earnings race. The comparison also reflects the different career paths taken by the two superstars during the latter stages of their playing careers, with Ronaldo moving to Saudi Arabia while Messi chose Major League Soccer. Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF lifts the Champion’s trophy after winning the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Final Saudi Arabia dominates the highest earners One of the biggest takeaways from the rankings is the growing financial strength of the Saudi Pro League. Six Saudi Pro League players appear among the world’s 15 highest-paid players, confirming the league’s ability to attract elite talent through record-breaking contracts. Karim Benzema sits second after Ronaldo with an estimated £2.01 million per week, while Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Ivan Toney and Ruben Neves also feature on the list. Their presence reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued investment in world-class soccer with clubs competing for domestic and continental success. Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Al Nassr and Karim Benzema (R) of Al Hilal. Top 15 highest-paid players by weekly base salary Cristiano Ronaldo — £3,421,039Karim Benzema — £2,010,107Sadio Mané — £656,629Kalidou Koulibaly — £569,626Erling Haaland — £525,000Kylian Mbappé — £512,992Sergej Milinković-Savić — £418,765Ivan Toney — £418,765Vinícius Júnior — £410,393Harry Kane — £410,393Jamal Musiala — £374,771Darwin Núñez — £368,533Lionel Messi — £360,876Virgil van Dijk — £350,000Rúben Neves — £343,417
Cristiano Ronaldo will once again be missing when Al-Nassr takes on Almeria in a preseason friendly, leaving supporters wondering why the Portuguese superstar has yet to return to action. Cristiano Ronaldo will once again be missing when Al-Nassr takes on Almeria in a preseason friendly, leaving supporters wondering why the Portuguese superstar has yet to return to action. The fixture carries added intrigue because of Ronaldo’s unique connection to the Spanish club, making his absence even more noticeable ahead of one of the final warm-up matches before the new campaign. The friendly, scheduled at the Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras, Portugal, is expected to provide another important test for both clubs. While Al-Nassr continues preparing under new head coach Ange Postecoglou, Almeria is using the occasion to sharpen its squad ahead of the new Segunda Division season. Almeria heads into the match after gradually building rhythm during preseason under new manager Xavier Garcia Pimienta. Friendlies against Aguilas, Granada, and Real Betis have helped the Spanish side improve fitness levels while allowing the coaching staff to implement a possession-based style of play. Monday’s preparations included another double training session, with recent signing Mikel Vesga fully integrated into the squad. Garcia Pimienta has continued emphasizing collective movement and ball retention as the foundations of his football philosophy. ⚽️ ¡Hoy tenemos un gran partido de pretemporada! 🤩🆚 @AlNassrFC.⌚️ 19:00 h. 🇪🇸📍🇵🇹 Cidade do Futebol.📺 Streaming en nuestro perfil de X. 🤝 Partido patrocinado por @Alawalyre.#PretemporadaUDA pic.twitter.com/c45iiRgZbn— UD Almería (@U_D_Almeria) August 4, 2026 On the opposite side, Al-Nassr is also entering the closing stages of its Portuguese training camp. The Saudi champion has produced mixed results so far, losing to Benfica B before defeating Merida and then suffering a 4-2 defeat against Estrela Amadora. Why Ronaldo is missing the match Cristiano Ronaldo will not feature against Almeria because he is still enjoying an extended recovery period following Portugal’s participation in the 2026 World Cup. According to multiple reports, the decision has nothing to do with injury or fitness concerns. Instead, Al-Nassr has granted its captain additional time off before the demanding 2026-27 season begins. Reports indicate Ronaldo will only return after Al-Nassr completes its preseason camp in Portugal. The Lisbon camp concludes on August 5, after which the squad will travel back to Riyadh before making final preparations for the Saudi Pro League opener against Al-Fateh on August 15. That timeline would leave Ronaldo with roughly one week of full training before the competitive campaign begins. View this post on Instagram Ronaldo still expected to be involved Although he will not appear on the pitch, Ronaldo is reportedly expected to attend the match from the VIP section. Spanish newspaper Marca reports suggest the Portuguese icon will watch alongside businessman Mohammed Al-Khereiji, one of his closest business partners. His presence would allow him to support Al-Nassr while also acknowledging another important part of his soccer career away from playing. The visit has also fueled optimism that Ronaldo’s return to team training is drawing closer after several weeks away from the squad. This preseason friendly carries additional significance because the 41-year-old superstar became a part-owner of Almeria earlier this year. In February 2026, the Portuguese legend reportedly acquired a 25 percent ownership stake in the Spanish club through CR7 Sports Investments, partnering with Almeria owner Mohammed Al-Khereiji.
Cristiano Ronaldo could have Mohamed Salah as a rival, after reports indicate the forward is close to joining the Saudi Pro League. Mohamed Salah could soon share a league — and a rivalry — with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Egyptian forward, who departed Liverpool as a free agent after nine years at Anfield, remains on course for a move to Al Ittihad, in what would set up direct confrontations with Ronaldo’s Al Nassr for years to come. Al Ittihad have offered Salah an annual salary in the region of $25 million, and the 33-year-old has reportedly accepted those terms in principle, with the move said to be approaching its final stages. However, the deal is not entirely in Salah’s hands. Al Ittihad had initially planned to sell Moussa Diaby this summer to make room for the Egyptian on the right wing, but the club reversed course in late July, confirming they had no intention of letting the Frenchman go. That stance has since been complicated by Diaby himself, who has pushed to leave and is reportedly in direct contact with Inter Milan over a move to Serie A, while Bayer Leverkusen — his former club — are also working to bring him back to the Bundesliga on reduced wages. Until Al Ittihad resolve Diaby’s future, Salah’s arrival remains contingent on a spot opening up in the squad. Moussa Diaby of Al Ittihad. (Getty Images) Should the move go through, Salah would find Ronaldo waiting on the other side of the Saudi Pro League table. Ronaldo, who signed a contract extension with Al-Nassr through 2027, led the club to the Saudi Pro League title last season, and the prospect of Salah joining as a direct rival has added an extra layer of intrigue to a transfer saga that has dragged on for months. Turkey also keeping tabs on Salah Al Ittihad are not the only side being linked with Salah, and Turkey has re-emerged as a talking point in recent days. Trabzonspor were reported to have moved ahead of Besiktas in the race, with some Turkish outlets claiming the two sides were closing in on personal terms for a two-year deal. However, Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan shut that down directly, stating, “there is no such agreement,” and adding that no talks had even been scheduled. Besiktas, for their part, had already tabled an offer worth roughly €10 million net per season plus €2 million in bonuses on a 1+1-year deal, but that proposal has reportedly been shelved as talks with Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia continue to advance.
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Met police say charge relates to alleged assault that reportedly took place in December at venue in LondonThe England footballer Ivan Toney has been charged with assault after an incident at a nightclub in Soho in December last year.Scotland Yard said the striker had been charged on 31 July with assault causing actual bodily harm. Toney, who plays for the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, is due to appear at Westminster magistrates court on 24 September. Continue reading...
While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad's summer recruitment strategy. Cristiano Ronaldo has unexpectedly found himself connected to one of the biggest transfer stories involving one of Al-Nassr’s fiercest Saudi Pro League rivals. While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad’s summer recruitment strategy. The latest move has raised eyebrows across the league, especially as Al-Ittihad moved quickly to strengthen its squad while Al-Nassr is still waiting to complete its first major signing of the transfer window. Ronaldo’s investment outside Saudi Arabia has now played an indirect role in helping one of the club’s biggest domestic competitors. Al-Ittihad has officially completed the signing of Senegal midfielder Dion Lopy from Spanish club Almeria, making him the club’s first overseas arrival of the summer transfer window. According to reports from Al-Riyadiah and several other outlets, the 24-year-old signed a long-term contract after the Tigers agreed to pay approximately $15 million, with the transfer fee scheduled to be paid in installments. The deal also reportedly includes a 10% sell-on clause in favor of Almeria should Lopy be transferred again in the future. The Tigers’ midfield is under the Black Panther’s command 🇸🇳🐅 pic.twitter.com/wDtEPNLc6U— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 The Saudi club confirmed the transfer through an announcement on its official social media channels, although it did not disclose the financial details. Ronaldo’s Almeria investment creates unexpected link The transfer carries an unusual twist because Almeria is partially owned by Cristiano Ronaldo. Earlier in 2026, Ronaldo acquired a 25% ownership stake in the Spanish club, expanding his soccer portfolio while continuing his playing career with Al-Nassr. That investment means one of Ronaldo’s clubs has now completed a profitable sale to Al-Ittihad, a direct Saudi Pro League rival that continues to challenge Al-Nassr for domestic honors. The timing has attracted attention because Al-Ittihad has already secured its first major foreign signing, while Al-Nassr has yet to bring in a new player during the current transfer window. Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al-Nassr FC competes for the ball with Ahmed Al-Julaydan of team Al-Ittihad FC The Senegal international joins Al-Ittihad following the departure of Brazilian midfielder Fabinho, whose contract expired at the end of last season. Lopy primarily operates as a defensive midfielder, although he is also capable of playing in a deeper central role. His versatility is expected to provide additional balance in midfield as the club prepares for the upcoming Saudi Pro League campaign. Since arriving at Almeria from Stade Reims in 2023, Lopy made 105 appearances, scoring four goals and contributing six assists across all competitions. Tansfer that benefits everyone The midfielder built a reputation in Spain through his physical presence, defensive awareness and ability to recover possession. During the 2025-26 campaign, he featured regularly in midfield while also contributing going forward with three goals and two assists in league competition. Statistical reports highlighted his impact in defensive situations, including strong numbers for tackles, interceptions, ball recoveries and aerial duels. His passing range also made him an attractive option for a possession-based side looking to strengthen its midfield. From the Land of Teranga 🇸🇳 to the Tigers’ Den 🐅 pic.twitter.com/9qz0cG9wQO— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 For Al-Ittihad, the signing addresses an important gap left by Fabinho’s departure while adding an experienced international midfielder entering
While Lionel Messi remains among the world's highest earners, the newest rankings reveal that the Portuguese icon has stretched his advantage, highlighting the growing financial influence of Saudi Arabian soccer. Cristiano Ronaldo continues to dominate the financial landscape, with the latest global salary figures placing him comfortably ahead of the sport’s biggest stars. While Lionel Messi remains among the world’s highest earners, the newest rankings reveal that the Portuguese icon has stretched his advantage, highlighting the growing financial influence of Saudi Arabian soccer. The latest data also underlines how dramatically the sport’s salary landscape has evolved in recent years. Players representing the Saudi Pro League now occupy several places among the world’s best-paid players, while stars from Europe’s biggest leagues continue to feature prominently. According to salary figures compiled by Capology, via Planet Football, Cristiano Ronaldo earns an estimated £3.42 million per week in base salary at Al-Nassr, keeping him at the top of world soccer’s wage rankings. The report states: “Cristiano Ronaldo still ranks as the highest-paid player in the Saudi Pro League and world football, earning a whopping £3.4 million per week with Al-Nassr.” Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates with the Saudi Pro League Trophy. Those figures are based solely on base wages and do not include bonuses, image rights, signing fees or commercial endorsements, meaning Ronaldo’s overall annual earnings are significantly higher. Messi returns to the rankings The latest list also marks Lionel Messi’s return to the global weekly salary rankings following his move to Inter Miami. Messi is ranked 13th with an estimated weekly base salary of £360,876, leaving a remarkable financial distance between the longtime rivals. While both remain among soccer’s biggest global icons, the latest figures illustrate how Ronaldo’s Saudi contract has transformed the earnings race. The comparison also reflects the different career paths taken by the two superstars during the latter stages of their playing careers, with Ronaldo moving to Saudi Arabia while Messi chose Major League Soccer. Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF lifts the Champion’s trophy after winning the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Final Saudi Arabia dominates the highest earners One of the biggest takeaways from the rankings is the growing financial strength of the Saudi Pro League. Six Saudi Pro League players appear among the world’s 15 highest-paid players, confirming the league’s ability to attract elite talent through record-breaking contracts. Karim Benzema sits second after Ronaldo with an estimated £2.01 million per week, while Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Ivan Toney and Ruben Neves also feature on the list. Their presence reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued investment in world-class soccer with clubs competing for domestic and continental success. Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Al Nassr and Karim Benzema (R) of Al Hilal. Top 15 highest-paid players by weekly base salary Cristiano Ronaldo — £3,421,039Karim Benzema — £2,010,107Sadio Mané — £656,629Kalidou Koulibaly — £569,626Erling Haaland — £525,000Kylian Mbappé — £512,992Sergej Milinković-Savić — £418,765Ivan Toney — £418,765Vinícius Júnior — £410,393Harry Kane — £410,393Jamal Musiala — £374,771Darwin Núñez — £368,533Lionel Messi — £360,876Virgil van Dijk — £350,000Rúben Neves — £343,417
Cristiano Ronaldo will once again be missing when Al-Nassr takes on Almeria in a preseason friendly, leaving supporters wondering why the Portuguese superstar has yet to return to action. Cristiano Ronaldo will once again be missing when Al-Nassr takes on Almeria in a preseason friendly, leaving supporters wondering why the Portuguese superstar has yet to return to action. The fixture carries added intrigue because of Ronaldo’s unique connection to the Spanish club, making his absence even more noticeable ahead of one of the final warm-up matches before the new campaign. The friendly, scheduled at the Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras, Portugal, is expected to provide another important test for both clubs. While Al-Nassr continues preparing under new head coach Ange Postecoglou, Almeria is using the occasion to sharpen its squad ahead of the new Segunda Division season. Almeria heads into the match after gradually building rhythm during preseason under new manager Xavier Garcia Pimienta. Friendlies against Aguilas, Granada, and Real Betis have helped the Spanish side improve fitness levels while allowing the coaching staff to implement a possession-based style of play. Monday’s preparations included another double training session, with recent signing Mikel Vesga fully integrated into the squad. Garcia Pimienta has continued emphasizing collective movement and ball retention as the foundations of his football philosophy. ⚽️ ¡Hoy tenemos un gran partido de pretemporada! 🤩🆚 @AlNassrFC.⌚️ 19:00 h. 🇪🇸📍🇵🇹 Cidade do Futebol.📺 Streaming en nuestro perfil de X. 🤝 Partido patrocinado por @Alawalyre.#PretemporadaUDA pic.twitter.com/c45iiRgZbn— UD Almería (@U_D_Almeria) August 4, 2026 On the opposite side, Al-Nassr is also entering the closing stages of its Portuguese training camp. The Saudi champion has produced mixed results so far, losing to Benfica B before defeating Merida and then suffering a 4-2 defeat against Estrela Amadora. Why Ronaldo is missing the match Cristiano Ronaldo will not feature against Almeria because he is still enjoying an extended recovery period following Portugal’s participation in the 2026 World Cup. According to multiple reports, the decision has nothing to do with injury or fitness concerns. Instead, Al-Nassr has granted its captain additional time off before the demanding 2026-27 season begins. Reports indicate Ronaldo will only return after Al-Nassr completes its preseason camp in Portugal. The Lisbon camp concludes on August 5, after which the squad will travel back to Riyadh before making final preparations for the Saudi Pro League opener against Al-Fateh on August 15. That timeline would leave Ronaldo with roughly one week of full training before the competitive campaign begins. View this post on Instagram Ronaldo still expected to be involved Although he will not appear on the pitch, Ronaldo is reportedly expected to attend the match from the VIP section. Spanish newspaper Marca reports suggest the Portuguese icon will watch alongside businessman Mohammed Al-Khereiji, one of his closest business partners. His presence would allow him to support Al-Nassr while also acknowledging another important part of his soccer career away from playing. The visit has also fueled optimism that Ronaldo’s return to team training is drawing closer after several weeks away from the squad. This preseason friendly carries additional significance because the 41-year-old superstar became a part-owner of Almeria earlier this year. In February 2026, the Portuguese legend reportedly acquired a 25 percent ownership stake in the Spanish club through CR7 Sports Investments, partnering with Almeria owner Mohammed Al-Khereiji.
Cristiano Ronaldo could have Mohamed Salah as a rival, after reports indicate the forward is close to joining the Saudi Pro League. Mohamed Salah could soon share a league — and a rivalry — with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Egyptian forward, who departed Liverpool as a free agent after nine years at Anfield, remains on course for a move to Al Ittihad, in what would set up direct confrontations with Ronaldo’s Al Nassr for years to come. Al Ittihad have offered Salah an annual salary in the region of $25 million, and the 33-year-old has reportedly accepted those terms in principle, with the move said to be approaching its final stages. However, the deal is not entirely in Salah’s hands. Al Ittihad had initially planned to sell Moussa Diaby this summer to make room for the Egyptian on the right wing, but the club reversed course in late July, confirming they had no intention of letting the Frenchman go. That stance has since been complicated by Diaby himself, who has pushed to leave and is reportedly in direct contact with Inter Milan over a move to Serie A, while Bayer Leverkusen — his former club — are also working to bring him back to the Bundesliga on reduced wages. Until Al Ittihad resolve Diaby’s future, Salah’s arrival remains contingent on a spot opening up in the squad. Moussa Diaby of Al Ittihad. (Getty Images) Should the move go through, Salah would find Ronaldo waiting on the other side of the Saudi Pro League table. Ronaldo, who signed a contract extension with Al-Nassr through 2027, led the club to the Saudi Pro League title last season, and the prospect of Salah joining as a direct rival has added an extra layer of intrigue to a transfer saga that has dragged on for months. Turkey also keeping tabs on Salah Al Ittihad are not the only side being linked with Salah, and Turkey has re-emerged as a talking point in recent days. Trabzonspor were reported to have moved ahead of Besiktas in the race, with some Turkish outlets claiming the two sides were closing in on personal terms for a two-year deal. However, Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan shut that down directly, stating, “there is no such agreement,” and adding that no talks had even been scheduled. Besiktas, for their part, had already tabled an offer worth roughly €10 million net per season plus €2 million in bonuses on a 1+1-year deal, but that proposal has reportedly been shelved as talks with Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia continue to advance.
Tap a headline to view metadata and excerpt fields in Sportra, then use the article website button to continue on the original publisher page.
