Mohammed Al-Kahl, the CEO of Al-Khaleej FC, officially confirmed that advanced negotiations are underway with Al-Hilal FC regarding the transfer of Norwegian striker Joshua King during the current winter transfer window. In statements to the "Thamania" channel, Al-Kahl revealed that Al-Hilal had submitted a formal offer to acquire the player, indicating that the offer is being carefully considered and that the next few hours will be crucial in determining the player's future.
Al-Kahl said, “Al-Hilal submitted an offer to sign Joshua King during the current winter transfer window, and we have responded to the offer. A final decision regarding the player’s transfer will be made in the coming hours.” He added that “the financial aspects of the Joshua King deal are very attractive,” which presents Al-Khaleej’s management with a crucial strategic decision.
The general context of the Saudi transfer market
These negotiations come amidst an active winter transfer window in the Saudi Professional League, which has become a magnet for top international football stars. Since the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo, Saudi football has witnessed a significant surge in attracting players with extensive European experience, aiming to raise the league's technical level and increase its competitiveness on the global stage. Al-Hilal, the league leaders, are looking to strengthen their squad to maintain their domestic dominance and compete strongly in the AFC Champions League.
The importance of the deal for Al-Hilal and Al-Khaleej clubs
For Al-Hilal, signing a player of Joshua King's caliber, with his extensive experience in the English Premier League with clubs like Bournemouth and Everton, represents a significant boost to the team's attack. King is characterized by his speed and ability to play in multiple attacking positions, giving coach Jorge Jesus additional tactical options, especially given the congested fixture schedule and the club's high ambitions across various competitions.
On the other hand, Al-Khaleej Club faces a difficult dilemma. While King's departure represents a significant loss for the club, as he is one of its most important players, the lucrative financial offer could provide the club with substantial funds to strengthen its squad with several new players, according to the requirements of Greek coach Giorgos Donis, in order to compete strongly in the second half of the season and move away from the relegation zone.
Anticipation and waiting for the final decision
With the assurances from the Al-Khaleej club's CEO, Saudi fans are now focused on the coming hours, which are expected to witness the official announcement of the final decision. Whether the deal goes through or not, these negotiations reflect the high dynamism of the Saudi transfer market and the ability of its clubs to move effectively to strengthen their squads with the best available players.
