Al-Ettifaq linked with Tunisia defender Montassar Talbi of Lorient

Montassar Talbi, the Tunisian-French centre-back at FC Lorient, has been linked with a move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq.

Talbi, 28, has started both of Lorient’s Ligue 1 matches this season, completing the full 180 minutes without scoring or assisting. He has also featured in all three of Tunisia’s World Cup matches, again playing every minute.

The defender joined Lorient from Rubin Kazan in July 2022 for €1.5m and remains under contract with the French club until 30 June 2027. His current market value is listed at €8m.

Talbi helped Lorient win the French second-tier title in the 2024-25 season, adding to the two Tunisian league championships he won with Esperance earlier in his career.

A move to Al-Ettifaq would take him from Ligue 1 to the Saudi Pro League, although the reported interest has not been confirmed as a completed transfer. Talbi’s recent involvement for Lorient and Tunisia comes as speculation surrounding his future emerges before the transfer window closes.

The Paris-born defender began his senior career with Esperance before moving to Turkey, Italy and Russia, but has spent the past four years at Lorient. He is currently valued at €8m and has one year remaining beyond the current season on his contract with the French club.