International press reports have revealed important developments regarding the future of Brazilian star Fabinho, the midfielder of Saudi club Al-Ittihad, amid persistent news of Brazilian clubs’ desire to regain his services, and the financial complications that prevent the completion of this deal.
Brazilian interest clashes with financial reality
According to ESPN Spain, Brazilian clubs Palmeiras and Vasco da Gama have expressed serious interest in signing Fabinho. However, this interest faces a significant financial hurdle, as the player would have to accept a substantial pay cut to align with the financial capabilities of South American clubs, something the player may not be willing to do at this time.
Europe: The most logical destination
The report indicated that Europe remains the most suitable and realistic destination for the player should he decide to leave Al-Ittihad early, provided an agreement can be reached to terminate his contract or facilitate his transfer. This is due to the ability of European clubs—compared to their Latin American counterparts—to offer financial packages that, at least partially, meet the player's expectations.
The 24 million euro obstacle
The crux of the crisis lies in Fabinho's high annual salary with Al-Ittihad, estimated at around €24 million per season. The report explained that the player's departure appears highly complicated; with his contract running until June 2026, any financial settlement would be costly. It is estimated that the player is entitled to substantial sums (around €12 million for the immediate future), and Fabinho is unlikely to waive his entitlements. Furthermore, it is improbable that Al-Ittihad's management would assume full responsibility for paying his dues and then allow him to leave for free.
Fabinho's career and statistics with Al-Ittihad
The 32-year-old joined Al-Ittihad during the summer transfer window of the 2023/2024 season, coming from Liverpool in a huge deal, after a career full of achievements at Anfield during which he won the Champions League and the English Premier League, making him one of the most prominent defensive midfielders in the world.
On the digital level this season, Fabinho has participated in 17 matches wearing the Al-Ittihad jersey, during which he succeeded in scoring one goal and creating two goals for his teammates, with a total of 1435 minutes of playing time, as the technical staff relies on him as a key pillar in the midfield to control the defensive and offensive rhythm of the team.
