English Premier League
Mohammed Al-Deayea urges Al-Hilal to sign Al-Ittihad star Ahmed Al-Jalidan
Mohammed Al-Deayea has called on Al-Hilal to make a move for Al-Ittihad right-back Ahmed Al-Jalidan during the next winter transfer window.
The former Al-Hilal and Saudi Arabia goalkeeper made the suggestion after watching Al-Jalidan produce what he considered an outstanding performance in Al-Ittihad’s 2-1 victory over Al-Nassr in the fifth round of the Roshn Saudi League.
Although Al-Hilal have already completed several high-profile deals since the start of the previous winter transfer period, Al-Deayea believes the club should continue strengthening its squad. He identified Al-Jalidan as the player who impressed him most during the recent Saudi derby.
“I watched many players in the Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr classic, but Ahmed Al-Jalidan, Al-Ittihad’s right-back, was the standout player in my view,” Al-Deayea said while appearing on the television programme Dawrina Ghair.
The former goalkeeper then made his recommendation to his old club with a laugh.
“I urge Al-Hilal to sign him in the next transfer window. He is a wonderful and balanced player defensively and offensively, and I believe he would give us a lot of strength,” he added.
Al-Deayea concluded by explaining why he valued Al-Jalidan’s display so highly. In his assessment, many full-backs excel in one area while leaving the other side of their game less developed.
“Most full-backs produce impressive levels either offensively or defensively. When one of them excels in one particular aspect, he neglects the other, but Al-Jalidan is outstanding in both areas,” he said.
Al-Ittihad’s win over Al-Nassr ended the match with a 2-1 scoreline and provided the context for Al-Deayea’s praise. His comments were presented as a personal recommendation rather than confirmation of any negotiations between Al-Hilal and Al-Jalidan.
The remarks also highlighted the continuing attention paid to the Saudi league’s leading clubs and their players during the transfer period. Al-Deayea’s view was that Al-Jalidan’s ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch would make him a valuable addition to Al-Hilal.
No information was given about a formal offer, contact between the clubs or a possible agreement. The only stated development was Al-Deayea’s public appeal for Al-Hilal to pursue the Al-Ittihad defender when the next winter transfer window opens.