The management of Al-Nassr FC is working diligently to bolster its first-team squad during the upcoming winter transfer window, with its sights set on signing international defender Waleed Al-Ahmad, a star defender for Al-Taawoun FC. This move comes at the recommendation of the team's coaching staff, who aim to address defensive weaknesses and strengthen the bench with talented local players capable of making a significant contribution in both domestic and continental competitions.
A technical obstacle is hindering the deal
According to reports and sources close to Al-Taawoun, Al-Nassr's ambitions have hit a major snag: the firm refusal of Al-Taawoun's Brazilian coach, Pericles Chamusca. Chamusca believes that Waleed Al-Ahmad is a cornerstone of his defensive system, and that letting him go mid-season could destabilize the team and weaken their chances of competing for top positions in the Saudi Professional League, especially given the impressive performances of the "Sugar Boys" (Al-Taawoun's nickname).
Cooperation Policy: Preserving the Stars
This stance is not new for Al-Taawoun's management, who have demonstrated clear resolve in previous negotiations. Sources indicate that the club's management intends to adopt the same strategy they recently employed with Al-Hilal, when they refused to release Sultan Mandash despite persistent offers and attempts to acquire him. This policy reflects Al-Taawoun's desire to maintain its core squad and resist pressure from major clubs, thus ensuring continued competitiveness.
The importance of local players in the Saudi League
The signing of Waleed Al-Ahmad is of paramount importance to Al-Nassr, extending beyond his status as a good defender. The regulations governing the Saudi league and the heavy reliance on foreign professionals in attacking positions make Saudi defenders a rare and highly sought-after commodity. Having a local defender with international-level qualities grants the coach significant tactical flexibility and allows for the utilization of foreign player slots in playmaking and attacking roles, which explains Al-Nassr's determination to acquire the player.
Victory challenges in winter
Al-Nassr faces a real challenge in the winter transfer window, as the management must find alternative solutions or present an irresistible offer to convince Al-Taawoun to change its stance. With the competition for the league title intensifying and Al-Nassr's ambition to progress in the AFC Champions League, the need to bolster the defense remains a top priority that cannot be postponed, making the coming days crucial in determining the fate of this deal.
