JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — Following the official opening of the Saudi Pro League transfer window, Al-Ahli has completed the headline signing of Portuguese winger Francisco Trincão from Sporting CP in a deal worth €39.35 million (plus potential add-ons). The 26-year-old international has committed to a long-term contract in Jeddah through 2030, reinforcing manager Matthias Jaissle’s attacking options.
Trincão arrives in Saudi Arabia after a highly productive 2025–26 season with Sporting CP, where he registered 18 goal contributions in the Portuguese Primeira Liga and added four goals and three assists across 11 UEFA Champions League appearances. His acquisition emphasizes a strategic shift among top Saudi Pro League clubs toward signing European talent entering their peak competitive years, rather than veteran figures near the conclusion of their careers.
In addition to Trincão, Al-Ahli further bolstered its creative midfield by securing 26-year-old Armenian international Eduard Spertsyan from Krasnodar for €21.9 million. Meanwhile, cross-town rivals Al-Ittihad completed the capture of 21-year-old Serbian central defender Jan-Carlo Simić from Anderlecht in a €15 million deal.
The current transfer window has also seen a wave of African talent moving to the Pro League, highlighted by Senegal-eligible defender Malang Sarr joining NEOM SC on a free transfer following the end of his contract with Lens, and Moroccan international Souffian El Karouani signing for Al-Qadsiah.
Francisco Trincão’s €39.35M Transfer to Al-Ahli Highlights Opening of Saudi Pro League Transfer Window
