Mbemba's Defiant Stand: Lille Star Rejects Saudi Offer to Chase World Cup 2026
2 February 2026
Transfer Update
Saudi side aims to bolster defense.
The Lille star reportedly turned down a lucrative offer from Al-Ittihad to move in this winter window.
According to L'Equipe, Lille's defender Chancel Mbemba rejected the Saudi side's tempting terms.
The Saudi club had sought to sign the 31-year-old central defender, offering a five-month contract to strengthen its squad before the Asian Champions League.
The Saudis wanted to buy the remainder of Mbemba's contract, six months, but the international player did not accept.
The decision mainly stemmed from foreign-player caps that would have barred him from the Saudi Pro League and limited him to AFC Champions League.
Mbemba, a former Marseille stalwart, prioritizes preparations for March's World Cup playoff and plans to focus on the 2026 World Cup this summer if he qualifies for his country.
Punchline: defense wins, money loses.
