In a move that could reshape the Saudi Professional League, Belgian star Yannick Carrasco , currently playing for Al-Shabab, has given his initial approval to join Al-Ittihad, the reigning league champions, during the current winter transfer window. This news comes as Al-Ittihad is striving to bolster its squad and get back on track after a shaky start to the season.
According to informed sources, specifically as reported by Channel 8, negotiations between Al-Ittihad's management and the Belgian player have reached an advanced stage, with Carrasco agreeing to the idea of wearing the Tigers' jersey. However, the deal is not yet finalized, as the player has set a key condition for its completion: a two-year contract, not the one-year deal initially offered. The next few hours are expected to bring decisive developments in this matter, either with the official announcement of the transfer or with the negotiations stalling at this point.
Background to the deal: Al-Ittihad's ambition and urgent need for support
Al-Ittihad's interest in Carrasco stems from a clear strategic objective. Despite winning the Roshan League title last season, the team has suffered a significant decline in performance and results during the first half of the current season. Under the leadership of Argentine coach Marcelo Gallardo, the management is striving to address the team's technical needs and strengthen positions that are clearly deficient, particularly in attack, which requires more options and effectiveness alongside French star Karim Benzema.
The importance of Carrasco and his expected impact
Yannick Carrasco represents a tremendous addition to any team he joins. After a distinguished career in European football, most notably with Atlético Madrid, he joined Al-Shabab in the summer of 2023 as one of the most prominent international stars to arrive in the Saudi league. Since his arrival, he has proven his high quality as a skillful and fast winger, capable of both creating and scoring goals. His potential move to Al-Ittihad would provide an immediate attacking solution and give the team depth and diverse tactical options, which could contribute to the team's strong return to contention for domestic and Asian titles.
Regionally and internationally, this potential deal between two major Saudi clubs reflects the dynamism and purchasing power that the Saudi Professional League has reached. Competition is no longer limited to attracting stars from Europe; a strong domestic transfer market has emerged, increasing the league's excitement and solidifying its position as one of the most attractive destinations for top footballers worldwide. If finalized, the Carrasco deal would be one of the most significant transfers of the winter transfer window, not only in Saudi Arabia but globally.
