Winter Fix: Al-Nassr Targets a Local Defender to Fortify the Backline

Defensive upgrade on the horizon

Al-Nassr is weighing a bold domestic signing to strengthen its defense ahead of the winter transfer window.

The club's leadership has identified Walid Al-Ahmad, a defender from Al-Taawoun, as one of the top potential additions for the lineup in January, according to Saudi newspaper Al-Yawm.

The move follows the player's standout showings with Saudi Arabia at the Arab Cup, where he drew strong attention for his defensive and physical qualities.

Nassr's interest in signing Al-Ahmad comes as Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus pushes to reinforce the defense during the winter mercato, especially with a congested schedule ahead.

Jesus even prepared a secret list of three prominent center-backs playing in European leagues to sign one of them in the coming winter window, insisting the new defender be the first January 2026 signing.

Nassr is preparing a training camp in the United Arab Emirates from December 7 to 11, hosting a warm-up match against Al Wahda on December 10.

At the moment, Al-Nassr sit top of the Saudi Pro League with 27 points, four clear of second-placed Al-Hilal; Jesus' men have also reached the AFC Champions League group stage by finishing top of their group.

Outlook and color

In the meantime, fans are hoping the defense holds steady—after all, a clean sheet is worth more than a thousand copyrights on a countdown clock.

Punchline 1: If the back four stays tight, the opposing forwards might need a GPS to find the goal.

Punchline 2: And if the winter mercato works out, the attackers can start wearing helmets—defense first, comedy second.