Pape Cabral chooses Monaco future amid Al-Ahli transfer uncertainty

Pape Cabral has decided to remain with AS Monaco after turning down the chance to join Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, despite the two clubs reaching an agreement over a transfer understood to be worth €12m.

The 19-year-old midfielder had been close to completing a move to the Saudi club. However, the deal was disrupted by changes within Al-Ahli, prompting Cabral to reconsider his next move.

After the proposed transfer had advanced, Cabral held a video call with Al-Ahli’s sporting director. The club’s sporting director was dismissed shortly afterwards, leaving his successor to take charge of the negotiations.

That change in personnel came as Al-Ahli was already facing several internal changes. The resulting uncertainty ultimately influenced Cabral’s decision, with the France Under-19 international choosing not to proceed with the offer.

Cabral is happy at Monaco and has opted to continue his development in the Principality. His decision means he will remain part of the Monaco project, rather than begin a new stage of his career in Saudi Arabia.

The player’s choice has been supported by Monaco’s executives, who remain keen to invest in his progress. Cabral recently extended his contract with the club until 2031, underlining Monaco’s intention to retain him for the long term.

Although a transfer fee had been agreed between the clubs, the proposed move could not be completed after the changes at Al-Ahli altered the circumstances surrounding the deal. Cabral’s decision brings the immediate uncertainty to an end and confirms that he will continue his career with AS Monaco.

The midfielder’s withdrawal from the transfer follows a period in which negotiations appeared to be moving towards an agreement. Al-Ahli had been prepared to sign Cabral, while Monaco had reached terms over a fee estimated at €12m. The situation changed only after the sporting director involved in the discussions left his position.

Cabral has now chosen stability at Monaco, where he remains under contract until 2031. The club’s backing of the player also ensures that the French youth international will continue to form part of its plans.

For Al-Ahli, the conclusion represents the loss of a deal that had appeared close to completion. For Monaco, it preserves the future of a 19-year-old midfielder whose long-term commitment had already been secured through his contract extension.

Cabral will therefore continue his career in Monaco after deciding against following through with the proposed move to Al-Ahli.