Pape Gueye in advanced talks to join Saudi club Al-Ahli
Senegalese midfielder Pape Gueye, currently under contract with Villarreal until June 2028, is reportedly in advanced discussions to transfer to Saudi club Al-Ahli. The 27-year-old, who previously played for Le Havre and Olympique Marseille before joining Villarreal in 2024, has seen his profile rise significantly. He had a strong season with Villarreal, playing 30 matches and scoring 5 goals with 2 assists in La Liga. Gueye was named the best African player in the Spanish league for the 2025-2026 season, surpassing I帽aki Williams and Nicolas P茅p茅. His achievements also include scoring the decisive goal in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco and notable performances in the 2026 World Cup. This potential move aligns with the trend of Saudi clubs attracting international talent, particularly from Africa, with players like Sadio Man茅, 脡douard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Idrissa Gana Gueye already in the Saudi Pro League. Pape Gueye has previously expressed openness to playing in Saudi Arabia, citing the opportunity to practice his religion more effectively, having made several pilgrimages to Mecca.
