In a bid to fortify their squad and maintain dominance in the Saudi Pro League, Al Hilal are in advanced talks to secure the services of Renan Lodi from Olympique Marseille.
The club, currently leading the league despite the setback of losing Neymar to an ACL injury, aims to fill the void left by the Brazilian star.
Fabrizio Romano, the renowned football transfer journalist, confirmed the developments via X, stating,
“Al Hilal are in advanced talks to sign Renan Lodi from Olympique Marseille. Negotiations will continue for a fee around $22m.”
And now, in recent developments, Gattuso confirms:
“Yes, there are talks ongoing for Lodi. We didn’t want to risk anything, that’s why he didn’t play. There are negotiations and I can’t say more”.
Lodi, a defensive-minded full-back with experience at Atletico Madrid under Diego Simeone, is seen as an ideal candidate to balance the squad’s requirements.
Despite earlier considerations for an attacking left-back as a Neymar replacement, the club continues to explore options. Another name on the radar is LAFC winger Denis Bouanga, a prolific MLS player and top scorer in both the league and the CONCACAF Champions Cup last season.
Also Read: Al-Hilal advancing in their pursuit of Marseille fullback Renan Lodi
Al Hilal faces competition for Bouanga’s signature, notably from OGC Nice in France, though reports suggest the Gabonese international favours a move to Al Hilal.
As Al Hilal navigates the transfer market, the potential additions of Lodi and Bouanga could serve as key reinforcements for Jorge Jesus’ squad.
With the club prioritizing defensive stability and attacking prowess, these strategic moves aim to secure their standing atop the Saudi Pro League.