Al Ahli move for Al Ettifaq defender Rady Al Otaibi after Al Hilal interest falls through

Al Ahli are in formal negotiations to sign Al Ettifaq right-back Rady Al Otaibi this summer, after rivals Al Hilal failed in an earlier attempt to bring in the Saudi defender.

Saudi journalist Khalid Al Zahrani reports that Al Ahli have opened talks with Al Ettifaq over a deal for the 26-year-old during the current transfer window.

According to Al Zahrani, Al Otaibi is under contract with Al Ettifaq until the end of next season, a situation which could encourage the Dammam club – known as “Faris Al Dhanaa” – to cash in now rather than risk losing him on a free transfer.

One of Saudi Arabia’s leading right-backs

Al Otaibi is widely regarded as one of the standout players in his position in Saudi football, a status that previously put him on Al Hilal’s radar.

Al Hilal tried to secure his services in the last winter transfer window as they looked for a replacement for Portugal international Joao Cancelo, but their efforts to land Al Otaibi were unsuccessful and no agreement was reached.

Al Ahli have now stepped into that space as they aim to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new campaign.

Established figure at Al Ettifaq

Al Otaibi has become a key figure in Al Ettifaq’s line-up over the past three seasons, holding down a regular starting place on the right side of defence.

He enjoyed his most impressive campaign last term, featuring in 25 matches in all competitions and providing three assists.

That level of consistency has increased his value in the domestic market and made him an appealing target for clubs looking to add proven Saudi talent to their squads.

Career path through several Saudi clubs

The right-back began his senior career with Al Wehda, where he was promoted to the first team in 2019.

He left Al Wehda the following season to join Ohod, before moving on to Al Hazem. During his time with Al Hazem, he spent a loan spell at Al Qadsiah, gaining further experience and game time.

In the summer of 2023, Al Hazem opted to sell Al Otaibi to Al Ettifaq, where he has since developed into one of the team’s most dependable performers.

Questions over Al Ahli role

Al Ahli already have two recognised right-backs in their squad: Ali Majrashi and Mohamed Abdulrahman.

That existing competition raises questions over how Al Otaibi would be used if he completes a move, and what his exact role might be in the team during the coming season.

However, with his contract situation at Al Ettifaq and his performances over recent campaigns, Al Ahli see an opportunity to add a prominent Saudi defender to their ranks, while Al Ettifaq must weigh up whether to sell now or risk losing him for nothing next year.