Al-Ittihad have progressed to advanced negotiations with Neom to secure left-back Fares Abdi during the January transfer window, according to reports from Saudi media outlet Arriyadiyah. The Saudi club is moving quickly to strengthen their defensive flank after identifying the position as a priority under German manager Jens Wissing.
The deal represents part of Al-Ittihad's broader restructuring of their foreign player contingent. The club plans to release Albanian defender Mario Mitaj once his transfer to Italian side Genoa is finalized, creating space in their squad for an additional foreign midfielder. Wissing is currently evaluating current left-back Muadh Faqihi before determining whether fresh investment is required at the position.
Transfer Timeline and Negotiations
Al-Ittihad's interest in Abdi became public on March 15, with contacts between the two Saudi clubs intensifying over recent weeks. Both sides have demonstrated genuine intent to conclude the transfer, with negotiations now reaching their most advanced phase. The club's management is keen to expedite the signing to provide Wissing with his desired defensive reinforcements ahead of the continuation of the Saudi Pro League campaign.
The left-back position has become increasingly central to Al-Ittihad's tactical planning under the German coach, who favors a pressing approach that requires dynamic full-backs capable of supporting both defensive and attacking phases. Abdi's profile aligns with these requirements, explaining the urgency of discussions between the two sides. The resolution of Mitaj's situation appears imminent, which should accelerate progress on the Abdi transfer and clear the path for Al-Ittihad's midfield recruitment plans.
