Al Ahli assess Villarreal’s Pape Gueye after Senegal’s Morocco victory

Al Ahli Saudi are considering a move for Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye as they look for a potential successor to Franck Kessie in the summer transfer window.

Kessie left the Saudi club when his contract expired at the end of last season, bringing an end to a three-year spell in which he helped Al Ahli secure two AFC Champions League Elite titles and win the Saudi Super Cup for the first time in nine years.

However, Gueye’s possible arrival could depend on whether Kessie returns. According to respected journalist Rudy Galetti, Al Ahli have identified the Senegal international as a target to strengthen their midfield for the forthcoming campaign, although the Ivorian remains a possible option for the club.

Galetti wrote on his personal account on X that Gueye is being considered as Al Ahli’s replacement for Kessie. He also said the 27-year-old is effectively competing with Kessie for the position, because Al Ahli have so far been unable to complete a deal for another midfielder while the former player’s potential return remains under consideration.

Gueye has become one of Senegal’s most prominent players in recent seasons. He scored the winning goal against Morocco in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, although the title was subsequently taken away from the Teranga Lions.

The midfielder’s performances in Spain have also earned him individual recognition. At the end of the season, Gueye was voted the best African player in the previous La Liga campaign, receiving 38% of the combined votes from supporters and journalists.

Gueye joined Villarreal in 2024 after leaving French club Marseille. Since moving to the Spanish side, he has made 64 appearances and scored nine goals.

His profile could appeal to Al Ahli as the club assesses its midfield options following Kessie’s departure. The Saudi side are therefore weighing up whether to pursue Gueye or retain the possibility of bringing back the Ivorian, who played a central role during a successful three-year period at the club.

For now, Gueye’s future remains linked to the decisions Al Ahli make in the summer market. The Villarreal player is on their list of targets, while Kessie’s possible return means the club’s midfield plans have not yet been settled.