Al Ahli close in on Saudi full-back Rady Al Otaibi after Al Hilal miss out

Al Ahli are in advanced talks to sign right-back Rady Al Otaibi from Al Ettifaq in the current summer transfer window, after rivals Al Hilal failed in a previous attempt to secure his signature.

Saudi journalist Khalid Al Zahrani has reported that Al Ahli have opened formal negotiations with Al Ettifaq over a deal for the 26-year-old defender, who has become one of the leading right-backs in Saudi football.

Al Zahrani added that Al Otaibi’s contract with Al Ettifaq is due to expire at the end of next season, a situation that could push the Dammam club, known as “Faris Ad-Dahna”, to consider selling him now rather than risk losing him on a free transfer.

Al Hilal interest ended without agreement

Al Otaibi’s performances have attracted attention across the Saudi Pro League, with Al Hilal attempting to bring him in during the last winter transfer window. The Riyadh giants viewed him as a replacement for Portugal international Joao Cancelo, who had departed the club, but their move did not materialise and Al Ettifaq kept hold of the player.

Despite that failed move, Al Otaibi has continued to strengthen his reputation at Al Ettifaq, which has paved the way for Al Ahli’s current approach as they look to reinforce their defensive options before the new campaign.

Established role at Al Ettifaq

Al Otaibi has been a regular starter for Al Ettifaq over the past three seasons, cementing his place in the first team. He reached his peak form last term, making 25 appearances in all competitions and providing three assists.

His consistency and attacking contribution from right-back have been central to his rise, helping to frame him as one of the standout Saudi players in his position.

Journey through Saudi clubs

The defender began his professional career at Al Wehda, earning promotion to the first team in 2019. After a single season, he moved to Ohod, where he continued his development before switching to Al Hazem.

Al Hazem initially sent Al Otaibi on loan to Al Qadsiah, giving him further top-flight experience, before agreeing a permanent transfer to Al Ettifaq in the summer of 2023. Since then he has become an integral part of the Dammam side’s back line.

Competition for places at Al Ahli

Should the move go through, Al Otaibi would join an Al Ahli squad that already includes Ali Majrashi and Mohamed Abdulrahman in the right-back role. That existing depth raises questions over how he would be integrated into the starting XI and what specific role he would be given by the coaching staff next season.

However, with his contract situation at Al Ettifaq and Al Ahli’s desire to strengthen ahead of the new campaign, negotiations are expected to continue as the Jeddah club look to bring in another Saudi international-calibre option on the right side of their defence.