Somerville set for record Saudi Pro League switch as Al Hilal close on €80m deal

Nuhu Adams July 23, 2026

Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville is on the verge of becoming one of the Saudi Pro League’s most expensive signings, with Al Hilal closing in on an €80m (£67.6m) move for the West Ham United wide man.

The Riyadh giants are understood to be in advanced talks to secure the 22-year-old in the current summer transfer window, in what would be the second-biggest transfer in the history of the Saudi top flight.

If completed, the deal would underline Al Hilal’s intent to keep reinforcing their star-studded squad with young, European-based talent as they seek to dominate domestically and make a deeper impact on the continental stage.

Al Hilal fans ‘counting the days’

Summerville’s name has already become a major talking point among Al Hilal supporters, who are eagerly anticipating his arrival and the impact he could make next season.

Crysencio Summerville, the article notes, is a name Al Hilal fans “تنتظره جماهير الهلال على احر من الجمر” – literally, they are waiting for him “on burning coals”, a local expression indicating intense anticipation and excitement.

They hope the Dutchman will “write history” with the club in the coming campaign, just as he did previously in the English Championship, where he built a reputation as one of the most dangerous wide players in the division.

Summerville’s pace, direct dribbling and goal threat from the flanks are seen as key attributes that could add another dimension to Al Hilal’s attack and further stretch opposition defences in the Saudi Pro League.

From English Championship star to Saudi showpiece

The winger’s career path has already included a standout spell in the Championship, where he emerged as a decisive attacking force over the course of a demanding season.

The article highlights that Summerville “wrote history” in the division, underlining how his performances there helped raise his profile and pave the way for a major move.

His time in England has showcased his ability to adapt to a physical and fast-paced league, while offering moments of individual brilliance that have caught the eye of scouts and big-spending clubs.

Al Hilal, who have recently invested heavily to attract top-level talent from Europe, now appear to have won the race for his signature as they continue to evolve their squad with both established stars and younger, high-upside players.

Second most expensive deal in Saudi history

The proposed €80m fee would make Summerville the second-most expensive player ever signed by a Saudi club.

Such a figure underscores both the scale of Al Hilal’s ambition and the broader financial muscle of the Saudi Pro League, which has rapidly emerged as a major player in the global transfer market.

For Al Hilal, the move would be another statement signing as they seek to maintain their dominance at home and strengthen their push for success in Asian competition.