Transfer: Troost-Ekong nears Saudi Pro League move

Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong is on the verge of completing a transfer from Greek champions PAOK FC to Saudi Pro League side Al Kholood.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on his X page that the centre-back was seen yesterday traveling to Saudi Arabia with his agent, David Moss, to finalize the move.

The 30-year-old has agreed to personal terms with Al Kholood and is set to sign a contract after undergoing a medical.

Troost-Ekong, who previously played for Udinese, Watford, and Salernitana, captained the Super Eagles to the AFCON 2023 final, where Nigeria lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast. He was named Player of the Tournament for his impressive defensive performances and crucial goals.

Saudi Arabian clubs have shown interest in Troost-Ekong for some time, with Greek media outlet gazzetta.gr confirming last week that Shabab Al-Ahli also made an offer for the experienced defender.

Shabab Al-Ahli had hoped their manager, Paulo Sousa, could facilitate the transfer, given their past working relationship at Salernitana before Sousa’s dismissal in October of last year, shortly after Troost-Ekong’s move to PAOK FC.

Troost-Ekong will join a growing list of Super Eagles players who have competed in the Saudi Arabian top flight, including Odion Ighalo, Ahmed Musa, and Saviour Godwin.