In a strategic move aimed at enhancing the technical stability of the first football team, the reliable Italian journalist and expert in the global transfer market, Fabrizio Romano, revealed that the management of Al-Ahli Saudi Club has succeeded in finalizing the renewal of the contract of the Turkish international defender Merih Demiral for a long period.
Romano confirmed via his official account on the "X" platform (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday that the solid defender has indeed signed the renewal contracts that will keep him within the walls of "Al-Ahli" until June 2029. This proactive step by Al-Ahli's management comes to block any external attempts to acquire the player's services, especially in light of the tangible interest from several European clubs that were monitoring the player's situation to sign him in the future as a free agent, as his previous contract was set to expire in June 2026.
Demiral's statistics and his career with Al Ahly
Merih Demiral, 27, joined Al-Ahli during the historic summer transfer window of the 2023/2024 season, arriving from Italian club Atalanta in a deal that was part of the club's strategy to bring in top-tier players to the Saudi Professional League. Since his arrival, the Turkish defender has proven his worth as a key player in the team's back line.
According to statistics for the current season, Demiral is a regular starter, having played 16 matches for the team, scoring one goal, and accumulating 1387 minutes of playing time. Demiral is characterized by his high fighting spirit, ball-winning ability, and aerial prowess, making him an indispensable player in coach Matthias Jiesle's squad.
The importance of renewal and the general context
This renewal carries significant implications beyond simply extending a player's contract; it reflects Al Ahli's desire to maintain its core structure and long-term sporting project. Demiral, who has previously played for major clubs such as Juventus and Atalanta in the Italian league, is a player with extensive international experience, both with clubs and with the Turkish national team, with whom he has excelled on the international stage.
This move comes at a time of rapid development and fierce competition in Saudi football, with major clubs striving to retain their star players to ensure competitiveness at all levels, both domestically and continentally, particularly in the AFC Champions League. Securing Demiral's services until 2029 sends a clear message that Al-Ahli is committed to a policy of technical sustainability and building a strong team capable of winning titles in the coming years.
