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Winter Exit Looms: Will Ayman Flatah Head to Neom?

6 January 2026

Winter Exit Looms: Will Ayman Flatah Head to Neom?
Ayman Flatah could leave Al-Ahli for Neom during the winter window.

Transfer Update

Ayman Flatah, a player for Al-Ahli, is on the verge of leaving the club and moving to Neom during the ongoing winter transfer window.

Saudi newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat reported that Flatah is close to a Neom move on a six-month loan, effective this January.

Neom’s interest comes at the request of French coach Christophe Galtière after injuries to Abdul Malik Al-Ayiri and Abbas Al-Hassan, which will sideline them for a long spell.

The 21-year-old Flatah is among the young talents in the Saudi Pro League, having spent last season on loan at Damac, appearing in 28 matches, 18 as starter, scoring once, and showing versatility across midfield.

Al-Ahli announced last August that it had renewed Flatah’s contract for three-and-a-half years, keeping him at the club until 2029.

The Western club will travel to face Al-Khodod next Saturday, in the 14th round of the Saudi Pro League.

Punchline 1: When a loan becomes a season, even the stadium starts charging rent.

Punchline 2: He’ll borrow a place on Neom's payroll; if he scores, is it still a loan?

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is reportedly nearing a move from Al-Ahli?

Ayman Flatah is close to a loan move to Neom.

What are the terms of the potential deal?

A six-month loan starting in January.

Which match could be affected by the transfer news?

Al-Ahli vs. Al-Khodod in the Saudi Pro League's 14th round.