Lead:
The Saudi football transfer window has intensified with major moves across European and domestic leagues. Real Madrid strengthened its attacking depth, while Liverpool faces potential departures of key offensive players. Saudi Roshn League clubs completed 75 friendlies against 65 international opponents in preparation for the 2026-27 season launch.
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Mohamed Salah to Trabzonspor — The Egyptian forward signed with Turkish club Trabzonspor on a contract through 2028, earning 17 million euros annually plus revenue share from personal merchandise. Salah rejected offers from Saudi leagues and Major League Soccer to join the Istanbul-based club.Real Madrid signs Yvan Diomande — The Spanish club completed the signing of Ivorian defender Yvan Diomande from RB Leipzig, marking Real Madrid's fourth transfer exceeding 100 million euros. The club also extended Vinicius Junior's contract through 2032.Musa Diabi joins Bayer Leverkusen — The French winger transferred from Al-Ittihad to the German Bundesliga club during the ongoing summer window. Bayer Leverkusen secured the deal after weeks of negotiations.Marino Bošević appointed Al-Ahli manager — The Dutch coach arrived in Jeddah to begin his tenure leading Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli club on a two-season contract. Bošević replaces Matthias Jaissle, who accepted a position with Newcastle United.Al-Hilal opens new training centre — Saudi Arabia's leading club inaugurated the Al-Majdiyah Sports Centre at Princess Nora University in Riyadh as the primary training headquarters for the senior football team.United Kingdom squad departures — Brazilian midfielder Fabinho officially departed Al-Ittihad. The club honoured his leadership and professional contributions throughout his tenure.What to Watch:
Gulf Cup 27 (Khaliji 27) begins September 23 in Jeddah, with Saudi Arabia opening against Kuwait and the final scheduled for October 6. The Roshn League season launches August 13 with all 18 clubs entering competition following intensive pre-season camps.