Al-Diriyah have completed the signing of Pedro Goncalves from Sporting Lisbon, beating Saudi Pro League rivals Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad to the Portuguese winger's signature. The newly promoted side agreed a deal worth €30 million across a two-year contract with an optional third season, according to Saudi media reports. The move comes on the recommendation of new Al-Diriyah boss Bruno Lage, who identified Goncalves as a priority target during the current transfer window.
Goncalves, 28, has established himself as one of Portugal's most prolific attacking talents since joining Sporting from Famalicao in 2020. His breakout season arrived immediately, when he claimed the Portuguese league's top scorer award in 2020-21 as Sporting captured the title. Over his five-year spell in Lisbon, the winger accumulated an impressive trophy haul including three Primeira Liga titles, a Portuguese Cup, two League Cups, and a Super Cup. Most recently, he contributed to Portugal's 2025 UEFA Nations League triumph.
Strong Recent Form Attracts Suitors
Last season proved Goncalves' consistency at the highest level. Playing 41 times for Sporting Lisbon, he registered 15 goals and 9 assists, cementing his status as a key creative force. His goal-scoring prowess and wide-play intelligence attracted interest from multiple Saudi clubs, though Al-Diriyah moved decisively to secure his services before a medical examination and formal contract signing.
The signing represents another significant coup for Al-Diriyah, who earlier this summer secured Idrissa Gana Gueye from Everton, denying Al-Ahli the Senegalese midfielder. Under Lage's stewardship, the club is assembling an ambitious squad capable of competing with the Saudi Pro League's established powerhouses. With European-quality talent arriving at the club, Al-Diriyah's promotion season promises to be far more competitive than traditionally expected for newly elevated sides.
