In a move reflecting the ambitious plans of Saudi clubs in the global transfer market, Spanish media reports have revealed that Al-Ittihad is seriously interested in signing one of the most promising young talents in European football, Real Madrid's French midfielder Eduardo Camavinga. This move comes as the club seeks to bolster its squad with players capable of making a long-term impact and to secure a future replacement for veteran French star N'Golo Kanté.
Background of interest and context of the Saudi League
The Saudi Professional League (the Roshan League) is no longer just a destination for players in the twilight of their careers. With significant support from the Public Investment Fund, major clubs like Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ahli have transformed into formidable purchasing powerhouses, capable of attracting world-class stars at the peak of their careers. The arrival of players of the caliber of Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema, in addition to N'Golo Kanté himself, has raised expectations and made targeting young players from top European clubs a viable option. Al-Ittihad's interest in Camavinga is not arbitrary; rather, it is an extension of this strategy aimed at building globally competitive teams and enhancing the league's technical and marketing value.
Who is Eduardo Camavinga?
According to the Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Camavinga is Real Madrid's primary target. The 21-year-old French player is considered a key pillar of both Real Madrid's and the French national team's future. He joined the Royal Club in the summer of 2021 from Rennes and quickly established himself as a versatile player, capable of playing in central midfield, central midfield, and even at left-back when needed. Camavinga is known for his immense energy, ball-winning ability, and technical skills in dribbling and passing. His current contract with Real Madrid runs until 2029, making negotiations with him extremely difficult and costly.
Importance and expected impact of the deal
If Al-Ittihad succeeds in completing this deal, it won't just be a replacement for another player; it will send a powerful message to the world. Signing a young player at the beginning of his promising career from a club the size of Real Madrid will completely change the perception of the Saudi league. Domestically, Camavinga's presence will give Al-Ittihad's midfield a tremendous boost alongside Brazilian Fabinho, enhancing the team's chances of competing for all local and continental titles. Internationally, such a move will increase the appeal of the Saudi league to other young talents and confirm its status as a major football destination on the global stage.
Camavinga has featured in 26 matches for Real Madrid across all competitions this season, scoring two goals and providing one assist, cementing his pivotal role in Carlo Ancelotti's squad. Despite the challenge, Al-Ittihad's ambitions seem boundless, and the coming days could hold some major surprises in the transfer market.
