Deal Nears: One Condition Stands Between Ali Al-Bulaihi and Al-Shabab
1 February 2026
Deal Nears: Al-Bulaihi on the Verge of Al-Shabab Move
Only hours separate the team's captain from departure.
Why the Move Is Happening
Sporting daily reports indicate Al-Shabab has reached an agreement in principle with Al-Hilal to bring Ali Al-Bulaihi on loan for the remainder of the current season, after rapid developments in talks between the clubs.
Background and What Comes Next
He had recently fallen from coach Simone Inzaghi's plans, with trust placed in other defenders such as Hassan Tembakti, Ali Lajami, and Kalidou Koulibaly, plus the recent arrival Pablo Mari, which reduced Al-Bulaihi's opportunities this season.
Saudi outlet Al-Riyadhia reported that Al-Shabab succeeded in finalizing an agreement with Al-Hilal to loan the defender until the end of the season, with flexibility on both sides, especially given the player's desire for regular playing time.
Al-Bulaihi, who joined Al-Hilal in 2017 from Al-Fateh, has long been a regular in the squad and with the national team, contributing to a host of domestic and continental trophies, though his involvement has waned this season for technical reasons.
If both clubs confirm the deal, Al-Bulaihi will move to Al-Shabab on loan through the end of the season, with a salary improvement that helped seal the agreement and sparked his eagerness for regular minutes.
Outlook and Impact
Beyond the business, this move could reshape the defensive options in the Saudi Pro League, offering Al-Shabab a steadier back line. If the transfer goes through, expect defensive walls to get a little louder—and perhaps a touch more stylish on the pitch.
Punchline 1: If the deal goes through, Al-Bulaihi should be careful—we hear the goalposts travel faster than rumors.
Punchline 2: Meanwhile, the only thing heavier than contract clauses is my data plan after following this transfer saga—ouch.
