Eric Bailly set to join Saudi Pro League

A new African talent is set to enter the Saudi Pro League, with Ivorian defender Eric Bailly reportedly close to signing with Al-Najma Club.

According to Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, Al-Najma, one of the newly promoted teams to the top flight, is in advanced negotiations to sign the 31-year-old center-back on a free transfer ahead of the 2025/2026 season.

The deal is expected to be for one season, with an option to extend for an additional year as the club aims to boost its defensive line.

Eric Bailly brings with him a wealth of experience from top European clubs, having played for Manchester United (England), Villarreal (Spain), Olympique Marseille (France), Beşiktaş (Turkey), and Espanyol (Spain).

During his time at Manchester United, Bailly won multiple trophies including:

On the international stage, Bailly has earned 49 caps for the Ivory Coast national team, scoring 2 goals. He was part of the squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2015.