Al-Ahli Jeddah Secures Merih Demiral: Renewal Talks Heat Up as European Links Fade
29 November 2025
Renewal Near Official Confirmation
Al-Ahli Jeddah has secured the stay of Turkish defender Merih Demiral for an additional spell, with a formal announcement expected in the coming days, according to reports.
His current contract runs until the end of this season, leaving open the possibility of a January renewal or a free move in the next summer window if a deal cannot be agreed.
Renewal details
Saudi newspaper Al-Yawm reported TV outlets confirming that Al-Ahli’s management has reached an agreement in principle with Demiral to extend his contract for another term, and an official confirmation is anticipated soon.
The reports also suggested the club would announce the extension publicly in the near future, easing concerns among supporters after links to European clubs had circulated.
European rumors
Earlier, Turkish outlet Fanatik indicated that Fenerbahçe had begun early outreach for the January window to bolster the defense, hinting at a possible return for Demiral if terms were right.
Fanatik noted the 27-year-old, who joined Al-Ahli from Atalanta in 2023 for about €17 million, would only move if both sides found satisfactory terms, with Al-Ahli preferring a multi-year extension over a short-term deal.
September Saudi reports reiterating renewal talks emphasized the defender’s importance as a defensive pillar for the club.
Demiral’s journey with Al-Ahli
Demiral arrived at Al-Ahli in the summer of 2023 from Atalanta for around €17 million, a move that underscored his high technical value after standout spells with Juventus and Atalanta.
Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, the Turkish defender has established himself as a core figure, helping the club win major competitions and making 81 official appearances over two seasons, with 3 goals and 4 assists, while delivering robust defensive performances.
Impact and style
Described as a physical, tenacious defender with leadership on the pitch, Demiral has been pivotal in stabilizing Al-Ahli’s backline and aiding build-up from the back, often linking with teammate Roger Ibanez in a compact defensive partnership.
He also poses a real threat on set pieces, becoming a valuable asset in dead-ball situations and strengthening the team’s overall defensive solidity this season.
Since his arrival, Demiral has helped reduce the team’s goals conceded and improved balance against counter-attacks and crosses; his harmony with goalkeeper Mendy and Ibanez has been a key factor in the defense’s overall improvement.
In addition to his on-pitch impact, Demiral’s willingness to negotiate and his leadership in organizing the defense have made him a central figure for Al-Ahli in this phase of the club’s ambitions.
Punchline 1: If contracts had locks, Demiral just bought a master key—defensive doors shut tighter than a vault at closing time.
Punchline 2: Rumors of a big move faded like a bad offside call—the only thing moving this winter is Demiral’s decision to stay, and the defense gets a standing ovation.
