Al-Ahli Saudi Transfers 2024: An Overview
Al-Ahli Saudi was founded back in 1937 and has been one of the most successful clubs in the country. They hold the record for winning the most King’s Cups (13) and have also won the Pro League thrice, finishing as runners-up on nine occasions.
Having been narrowly relegated by a single point back in 2021-22, Al-Ahli won the Saudi Division 1 in style last season, earning 72 points from their 34 games. They have made a strong return to the top flight so far and are currently ranked third with 40 points from 19 games, six ahead of fourth-placed Al-Taawoun.
Acquiring household names such as Roberto Firmino, Riyad Mahrez and Allan Saint-Maximin in July 2023 has helped the club’s cause in making a strong return to competing with the big boys. However, they could use some more reinforcements to their existing squad to go that extra mile and cover the gap between themselves and the likes of Al Nassr and Al-Hilal.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at what Al-Ahli Saudi need.
Al-Ahli Saudi Transfers 2024: What do they need?
- Al-Ahli had the best defensive record in Division 1 last season, conceding just 24 goals last season at 0.7 goals per game. They currently have the second-best record in the Pro League, conceding 1.0 goals per game.
- They scored 48 goals in 34 league games that season and are just seven short of that tally with 41 strikes in just 19 games so far.
- Al-Ahli have made four errors leading to goals this season and also conceded four penalties, of which three were converted.
- Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has kept clean sheets in 11 of the 19 Pro League games he has played in.
- New signings Mahrez and Saint-Maximin have combined for 26 goals and assists between them this season.
It is clear that acquisition of marquee players has helped Al-Ahli elevate their performances this season, but should any of their attackers or their goalkeeper get injured, they could be in a spot of bother.
While it is unlikely they will contend for the title this season being 13 points off leaders Al-Hilal, the club could dive into the transfer market to strengthen their chances for next season.
Signing forwards and wide players to cover for Firmino and Mahrez would be crucial, while they could also sign a quality central defender to pair with Roger Ibanez. This will help them maintain their current level and build a strong platform to transcend into becoming potential title contenders.
ALSO READ: Al Nassr Transfers 2024: Needs, Potential Signings, Targets and Outgoings
Al-Ahli Saudi Transfers 2024: Potential Targets & Signings
Jesse Lingard
With 182 Premier League appearances including 46 goal contributions under his belt, the former Manchester United midfielder could be a valuable addition to a team looking to progress in their development.
Lingard is a lively customer with the ball at his feet and is a willing dribbler, who can also cross the ball fairly well. He also chips in with the occasional goal in crucial moments. Aged 31, the Englishman still has a few years of quality football left in him and it could be the ideal coup for Al-Ahli.
The attacking midfielder has been out of contract since July 2023 following the expiration of his deal with Nottingham Forest and is currently a free agent.
Carlos Vela
Vela has made 547 professional appearances throughout his career, scoring 185 goals and providing 110 assists in the process. Blessed with a left foot to die for, the Mexican possesses unique flair and finesse to his game. He is an astute finisher and can also play from wide areas and create chances.
Aged 34, he could provide much-needed rotational support to Firmino, whilst also ensuring there isn’t significant drop-off in terms of output for the team. Al-Ahli will need to move quick before a potential renewal is tabled by his current club, or before any other suitors come in.
The former Arsenal and Real Sociedad forward is currently without a club after his contract with LAFC expired at the beginning of January 2024.
Thiago Silva
The veteran defender has been one of the best in the business for the better part of the decade. Despite being 39, Silva has been a regular feature in Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea teams, making 22 appearances across competitions this season. However, with the club trending towards investing in young players for the long-term, this could be the perfect opportunity for Silva to make a move.
With 698 appearances at professional level, Silva has scored 42 goals and provided 17 assists, en route to winning countless major honors, including the Champions League, Ligue 1 and Serie A titles, among others.
Thiago Silva’s current contract with Chelsea expires in June 2024 and he is currently free to negotiate with other clubs, having entered the final six months of his deal.
Al-Ahli Saudi Transfers 2024: Potential Departures
As of now, none of the players in the core group are linked with moves away from the club as manager Matthias Jaissle looks to build on the squad Al-Ahli have already assembled.
ALSO READ: Al-Ittihad Transfers 2024: Needs, Targets, Potential Signings and Outgoings.