Ahmed Abdu: Saudi-Eritrean striker linked with Al-Khaleej move after NEOM exit

Saudi-Eritrean centre-forward Ahmed Abdu, currently without a club after leaving NEOM SC this summer, is being linked with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Khaleej.

Abdu, 29, became a free agent on 1 July after his departure from NEOM and is understood to be under consideration as Al-Khaleej explore low-cost attacking options ahead of the new campaign. His current market value is listed at around 250,000, which would make any deal relatively affordable in the context of top-flight Saudi recruitment.

The Jeddah-born striker enjoyed a productive spell in the Saudi First Division League, scoring 15 goals and providing seven assists in 34 appearances, and was part of the NEOM SC side crowned second-tier champions in the 2024-25 season. That title-winning campaign has helped to re-establish his credentials following stints in the top flight with Al-Wehda, Al-Shabab and Abha.

Across his time in the Saudi Pro League, Abdu has made 123 appearances, registering 17 goals and five assists. While his scoring record at the highest domestic level is modest, his overall workload and experience are viewed as assets for clubs operating outside the divisions financial elite.

Abdu, a right-footed forward standing at 1.83m, has spent much of his career in Saudi football after early spells with Al-Fayha, Al-Riyadh and Al-Tai. Having already stepped away from club football on more than one occasion before returning to the professional game, his current status as a free agent again places him in a position where he can move without a transfer fee, leaving any agreement with Al-Khaleej dependent on salary and contract length.