Benrahma seals €15M switch to Neom SC after promotion heroics

Saïd Benrahma has completed a permanent transfer to newly promoted Saudi Pro League side Neom SC. The Algeria national team midfielder helped the Tabuk-based club gain promotion during his six-month stay and is set to be a key player for the big spending club’s top flight debut.

Benrahma sealed a move to Neom after a successful loan spell from French Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais. Benrahma had joined Lyon from English side West Ham United. Neom paid 15 million euros for the 29-year-old’s services and also acquired another well known player from Lyon, former French national team and Arsenal forward Emmanuel Lacazette.

Lyon has been relegated to Ligue 2 by the French financial fair play watchdog, the DNCG. Benrahma’s move came at a critical juncture for Lyon as they fight for league survival and appeal the decision.

Benrahma produced seven goals and eight assits in fifteen league matches for Neom in the Saudi second tier. The Algerian international is expected to be a key player for Neom as they begin their new journey in the Saudi Pro League alongside Lacazette and another big money signing, Ivory Coast U-23 international midfielder Amadou Koné.