Reliable Portuguese press reports have confirmed that the management of Al-Ittihad Saudi Club has reached a final agreement with Portuguese midfield and defense star, Danilo Pereira, to extend his contract with the team, in a strategic move aimed at strengthening the technical stability of the “Dean” squad during the coming seasons.
According to the widely circulated Portuguese newspaper Record, both parties have agreed on all terms of the new contract, which will run until June 2027, with an option to extend for an additional year. The club is expected to officially announce this significant deal in the coming days, putting an end to speculation surrounding the 34-year-old player's future.
Background of the deal and its importance to the team
Danilo Pereira joined Al-Ittihad during the 2023-2024 winter transfer window from Paris Saint-Germain and quickly proved his quality and technical ability, becoming a key player in the team's lineup. Last season, the Portuguese international participated in 29 matches across all competitions, scoring one goal and delivering strong defensive performances throughout 2,570 minutes of play, demonstrating his ability to play effectively in both center-back and central midfield positions.
This renewal comes at a time when Al-Ittihad is seeking to reorganize and build a strong team capable of competing fiercely for all domestic and continental titles, especially after a season that fell short of its fans' expectations. Retaining a player with Pereira's experience, who has played for major clubs like Porto and Paris Saint-Germain, gives the team significant defensive strength and strategic depth in midfield.
Impact on the strategy of the Saudi Roshan League
More broadly, this move is significant not only for Al-Ittihad Club, but also represents a positive indicator of the success of the Saudi Pro League's strategy in attracting and retaining international stars. Under the ambitious project led by the Public Investment Fund to develop Saudi football, retaining top players and ensuring their stability in the Kingdom has become just as important as signing them.
The decision of a player of Danilo Pereira’s stature, who has a distinguished career in Europe, to continue in the Saudi League for years to come, enhances the reputation and credibility of the competition on the international stage, and encourages more distinguished players to join it, confirming that the Saudi project is not just a short-term destination, but an attractive and stable environment that allows stars to continue their professional careers successfully.
