Rising Gulf Star Emerges on the Radar of Saudi Giants

Rising Gulf Star Emerges on the Radar of Saudi Giants

Ahmed Khreideh, president of Al-Khaleej, said there are developments in Murad Housaawi's status as he continues to deliver standout performances for the team, attracting the attention of major clubs.

Housaawi has been delivering strong displays as his side advanced to the King Salman Cup quarterfinals recently after beating Al-Taawoun on penalties.

Khreideh, in televised remarks, said: "Murad is a big talent, we expected there would be offers for the player."

There is already an official bid that has reached Al Hilal, inquiring about the player in recent days.

He added that the focus remains on keeping the team's impressive run alive and securing more positive results since the season began.

He continued: "Murad is an important piece for the squad, and when the time comes we will talk about offers."

Regarding the financial value Al-Khaleej would want for selling the player, Khreideh declined to confirm or deny the reports that the club was asking 100 million riyals.

"The offer must reflect the player's value and what he brings, but our focus now is on the team and achieving good results," he said.

Since joining from Ohod, the 24-year-old has scored two goals and produced the same number of assists across 40 matches, while at his previous club he had one goal and one assist in 26 matches.

Earlier Saudi reports said Ohod holds a fixed stake in any future sale should the player move from Al-Khaleej to another club.

Four-Wire Interest from the Big Four

According to Al-Yom newspaper, there was strong interest from Al Hilal, Al Qadsiah and Al Ahli to sign Housaawi from Al-Khaleej, before Al-Riyadhiya added that Al Ittihad was also among the clubs keen on the young midfielder.

With Hilal pressing ahead with a formal bid, the Italian coach Simone Inzaghi's squad appears determined to reinforce with a young talent to offset the departure of former star Musab Al-Juwair, who had moved to Al Shabab on loan two seasons ago, then joined Al Qadsiah permanently last summer.

Upcoming Homegrown Talents

Meanwhile, as Hilal seeks to reduce the team's average age and add new youth, Mohammed Al-Qahtani stands out as one of the brightest talents at the club, impressing with skill and pace despite his young age.

Born in 2002, Qahtani rose through Hilal's youth ranks to reach the first team, with Jorge Jesus's confidence leading the club to extend his contract until June 2026.

Qahtani typically plays on the right wing, with a powerful left foot that helps him dribble and cut inside, and he is noted for smart movement and the ability to create chances in tight spaces.

In recent appearances, Qahtani has scored decisive goals and delivered important assists despite limited minutes, highlighting his effectiveness in tight windows. He is often used as an impact substitute to change the tempo and has earned wide praise for a stunning goal in one of the latest matchdays in the Saudi Pro League.

Despite fierce competition within the squad, his future looks bright thanks to the faith shown by the coaching staff and management, with expectations that he could become a cornerstone for both Al Hilal and the Saudi national team in coming years.

Forward Line Prospect: Darci

Abdul Karim Darci is also emerging as a young face to watch in Saudi football. He started with Al Ahli, rose through the youth teams to reach the first team, before moving to Al Hilal in a move seen as a turning point for his career.

Born in 2003, Darci can play in multiple positions, either in central midfield or attacking wings, giving him tactical flexibility to adapt to different systems.

Although his appearances for Ahli did not exceed 14 matches, he showed clear signs of technical ability and potential for growth.

Darci's move to Hilal aligns with the club's strategy of investing in local talents, and he is expected to receive gradual opportunities amid strong competition. He is known for good ball control, speed, and a combative spirit, though he still needs experience to cement a regular spot in the lineup.

Seen as a project with a bright near-term impact, especially if he continues to develop under the coaching staff in one of Saudi Arabia and Asia's strongest clubs.

Punchline: If Murad's price keeps rising, even the stock market will start asking for a cut of his highlights.

Punchline: And if this rumor mill runs any longer, I’ll start charging rent for the headlines—talk about headline acts living on borrowed time.