The corridors of Al-Ittihad Saudi Club are witnessing intense activity and rapid developments in the winter transfer window, as reliable Italian press reports revealed that the interest of the "Dean's" management in signing the Portuguese left-back Nuno Tavares, currently on loan to the Italian club Lazio, has entered a very serious stage in the past few hours.
Details of the negotiations and Lazio's financial position
According to the Italian network Sport Mediaset, Al-Ittihad's management is actively seeking to strengthen the team's left flank with a player possessing balanced attacking and defensive attributes. Reports indicate that Nuno Tavares has shown considerable openness and enthusiasm for the idea of embarking on a new professional experience in the Saudi Professional League, giving the green light for Al-Ittihad's negotiators to proceed.
On the other hand, although Lazio's management (who have the right to buy the player's contract or negotiate his future in coordination with his parent club, Arsenal, should the purchase clause be activated) have not ruled out the player's departure, they have set a clear financial condition. The Italian club has stipulated a minimum fee of €15 million to agree to release the player in the upcoming winter transfer window.
Tavares' career: Physical strength and European experience
Al-Ittihad's interest in Nuno Tavares stems from his impressive resume despite his young age. Tavares began his career at Benfica's academy in Portugal before making a high-profile move to Arsenal in England. He then enjoyed a successful loan spell with Olympique Marseille in France, where he showcased his exceptional attacking abilities. Following this, he joined Nottingham Forest and is currently delivering outstanding performances in Serie A with Lazio. The player possesses tremendous physical strength and explosive speed on the left flank, qualities that Al-Ittihad currently lacks.
The Federation and the context of the Saudi sports project
These moves come as Al-Ittihad seeks to return to strong contention for all domestic and continental titles, especially after acquiring world-class players such as Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kanté, and Fabinho. The coaching staff aims to address the defensive weaknesses that plagued the team in previous periods.
This interest also reflects the general trend of the Saudi Professional League in attracting young talents and names that are still at the peak of their footballing abilities in the top five European leagues, and not just veteran players, which enhances the market and technical value of the Roshan League globally.
Al-Ittihad fans are eagerly awaiting the next few days, which could be crucial in finalizing this deal, especially with the official opening of the winter transfer window approaching. Fans hope to see Tavares in the Tigers' jersey to boost the team's chances in the second half of the season.
