Ibanez considers Aston Villa move as Al-Ahli seek to retain Brazil defender

Roger Ibanez’s future at Al-Ahli Saudi FC has been thrown into doubt after the Brazilian defender received an offer from Aston Villa.

The Premier League club is understood to have proposed a three-season contract for the 27-year-old, who has become one of Al-Ahli’s key defensive players. The approach could threaten the Saudi club’s plans to retain a central figure in their back line for next season.

According to sports journalist Mohammed Al-Bakiri, Aston Villa are interested in signing Ibanez and have made an offer for the Brazil international. The final decision now rests with the player, who is expected to determine whether to accept the move to England or continue his career with Al-Ahli before the end of the current summer transfer window.

Al-Ahli are keen to keep Ibanez, whose importance to the team has increased over recent seasons. He has established himself as one of the club’s defensive leaders after demonstrating an ability to perform under pressure and produce strong performances in both domestic and continental competitions.

The Saudi club had already taken steps to try to protect the defender’s future. Other reports indicated that Al-Ahli’s management had begun discussions over a contract extension, including making a verbal proposal to Ibanez after his involvement with Brazil at the most recent World Cup.

That approach was intended to strengthen the club’s position in the face of potential interest from overseas. However, negotiations have proved difficult, particularly over the financial terms of any new agreement.

Ibanez is believed to want his annual salary increased from about €8.5m to €10m. The request reflects his desire for a contract that matches both his technical value and his status within the Al-Ahli squad.

The defender joined Al-Ahli as one of the club’s important defensive assets and has since played a central role in the team’s plans. His ability to cope with pressure and maintain his level in major fixtures has made him a trusted part of the side.

Al-Ahli now face a significant test in their attempt to keep one of their most important defensive weapons. Losing Ibanez at this stage would represent more than the departure of an individual player, as it could affect the club’s wider plans and defensive stability ahead of the new season.

If he chooses to accept Aston Villa’s offer, the move would give the Brazilian the opportunity to begin a new chapter in the English top flight. If he remains in Saudi Arabia, Al-Ahli will still need to resolve the financial gap between the player’s demands and the terms currently under discussion.

The outcome is expected before the summer transfer window closes, with Ibanez set to decide whether to stay with Al-Ahli or take up the chance to join Aston Villa.