Damac have confirmed the signing of Ivorian forward Yakou Méïté ahead of the 2025-26 season, strengthening their attacking options as they prepare for the new campaign.
The Saudi Pro League club, led by president Khalid Al-Mushaat, announced that the 29-year-old has signed a professional contract to bolster the squad’s frontline.
The deal marks a significant addition to Damac’s roster as they seek to enhance their competitiveness both domestically and beyond.
Méïté arrives with considerable experience from his career in Europe.
Most recently, he played for Cardiff City in England’s third tier, while earlier spells at clubs such as Reading gave him exposure to the physical and technical demands of English football.
His international background with Ivory Coast further adds weight to his profile, with Damac viewing him as a key figure in their ambition to challenge more strongly this season.
For Méïté, the move represents both a fresh chapter and a new test. Expressing his delight after the announcement, he said: I am happy to join Damac and I intend to make a significant contribution to writing a new chapter of success on Saudi pitches.
His words reflect the determination of a player eager to make an impact in a fast-developing league that has attracted growing attention in recent years.
Damac’s management has been clear about its intentions.
The club views the signing as a strategic step in building an experienced and efficient attack capable of competing against the league’s strongest sides.
This recruitment is part of a clear desire to have quality attacking options and increase the team’s competitiveness in view of the season’s sporting objectives, a club statement said.
Méïté’s versatility in the forward line, combined with his strength, work rate, and ability to score important goals, is expected to give coach and teammates additional options in key matches.
With Damac aiming to push higher up the table, his presence offers both depth and reliability in crucial attacking situations.
The Ivorian striker’s arrival also highlights the growing influence of Saudi clubs in the transfer market, as they continue to attract players with proven European and international experience.
For Damac, the capture of Méïté is seen not just as a boost to their squad but as a signal of intent for the season ahead.
With the campaign approaching, Damac supporters will be eager to see how their latest signing adapts to Saudi football and whether his arrival can provide the attacking spark needed to achieve the club’s ambitions.