Ziyech, Koulibaly set for Saudi Arabia move amid clearout at Chelsea

Chelsea star, Hakim Ziyech

Hakim Ziyech is poised to finalize a transfer from Chelsea to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, as per reliable sources. Meanwhile, Kalidou Koulibaly is also nearing a move to the Middle East.

Chelsea is aiming to generate funds this summer, partly to offset the significant expenditure of the past two transfer windows and also to facilitate further business. Among the players made available for transfer are Ziyech and Koulibaly.

Todd Boehly, co-owner of the Blues, recently traveled to Saudi Arabia for meetings with various football officials, where the potential transfer of Chelsea’s peripheral players was discussed.

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Acting swiftly, the Saudi authorities have confirmed that Ziyech will be the first Chelsea player to venture to the Middle East this summer. The talented player has reached an agreement to join Al-Nassr for a duration of three years, partnering with Cristiano Ronaldo. Ziyech is set to undergo a medical examination before officially signing the contract.

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In the case of Koulibaly, negotiations are progressing for a move to Al-Hilal. The former Napoli center-back has declined a loan return to Serie A in favor of a permanent transfer to Saudi Arabia. A resolution on personal terms is nearing completion, and a three-year contract until 2026 is also being discussed for the 31-year-old.

Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has likewise agreed to a three-year contract with Al Ahli. The club is currently working on reaching an agreement with Chelsea regarding the transfer fee. The deal is expected to be finalized later this week.

Meanwhile, discussions with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang regarding a move to Saudi Arabia are ongoing, although a deal has not yet been reached. Romelu Lukaku has been targeted as a potential signing, but he expresses a strong desire to remain in Europe.

Callum Hudson-Odoi has also been mentioned in discussions, but at present, he is not interested in a move to the Middle East.