Agent Reveals Why Al Hilal's Defender Deal Collapsed: The Real Reason Behind the Transfer Stall

Background

Federico Pastorello, the agent of Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, who currently coaches Al Hilal, reveals the real reason behind the postponement of the defensive signing that the team had been hoping to secure to bolster its backline. He notes that negotiations faced unforeseen obstacles that prevented a timely agreement.

The truth behind the deal

Inzaghi is eager to reinforce the squad across positions, especially in defense, to implement his system in the best possible way. In statements highlighted by the Saudi daily Today, Pastorello explained that the failure to sign Fiorentina defender Pietro Kumotsu during the summer mercato was not due to finances or negotiations, but the player's own decision.

He added that the clubs had reached an advanced stage, with Al Hilal serious about signing the defender, but Kumotsu chose not to move, deciding at the last moment to stay with Fiorentina despite readiness from both sides.

Even with that setback, Pastorello stressed that Inzaghi will not drop the goal of signing a top defender in the upcoming winter mercato.

Outlook

Al Hilal continues to deliver strong performances domestically and continentally under Inzaghi, showing a clear footballing identity and notable tactical discipline, making it one of the most stable and cohesive teams this season. And if patience were a position, this transfer saga would still be waiting for its first assist.

Punchline note: If deals were arrows, this one needs a longer quiver. And yes, I still believe winter is coming for a defender—preferably with a passport and a heartbeat-ready, last-minute decision-maker.