Al-Nassr are reportedly pursuing a swap deal with Al-Shabab that would see goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi move in the opposite direction, with young right winger Humam Al-Hammami heading to the Saudi capital club. According to sports journalist Salem Al Kulaib, the transaction would involve Al-Aqidi plus a cash payment from Al-Nassr in exchange for the 22-year-old talent.
Potential Winners and Losers
Media analyst Turki Al-Ghamdi believes Al-Nassr would emerge as clear winners from any agreement. He argues that Al-Aqidi, while competent, represents a significant risk as a lone goalkeeper without adequate foreign backup. Al-Hammami, conversely, represents one of Saudi football's most promising young talents capable of immediately establishing himself as a starter at Al-Shabab.
Al-Ghamdi expressed concern over Al-Shabab's position in negotiations, warning the club would become "the biggest loser" unless the financial compensation substantially addressed their ongoing crisis. He acknowledged that Al-Hammami is coveted by multiple clubs within the Public Investment Fund structure but stressed that parting with him in a straight swap for a goalkeeper of Al-Aqidi's profile fails to represent value.
Al-Aqidi's Future Under Postecoglou
The 26-year-old's status remains unclear following new Australian manager Ange Postecoglou's arrival. Some reports suggest the coach has deferred a final decision until the conclusion of pre-season training. Other sources indicate Postecoglou has already approved the departure of Brazilian goalkeeper Bento while retaining Al-Aqidi as first choice, with plans to recruit a local backup keeper.
Al-Aqidi developed through Al-Nassr's academy, earning first-team promotion in July 2019. He subsequently participated in the Saudi Talent Programme in Spain before returning to domestic football, including loan spells at Al-Taee and Al-Fateh. With domestic transfer activity dominating Saudi football's summer window due to widespread financial constraints among major clubs, moves like this swap arrangement may become increasingly common in the coming weeks.
