Al Shabab leave Hamam Al-Hamami’s future open amid Al Hilal interest

Abdulaziz Al-Malik has played down suggestions that Hamam Al-Hamami could join Al Hilal during the forthcoming winter transfer window, saying it was too early to discuss a new contract for the Al Shabab winger.

Reports have linked Al Hilal with a move for the Saudi Arabia international after his impressive performances at the Gulf Arab Cup “Gulf 27”, where he helped his country win the tournament.

Al-Malik was asked about the speculation by a journalist following Al Shabab’s 6-1 victory over Al Ahli in the 12th round of the Roshn Saudi League on Friday.

“Will Hamam renew his contract or move to your neighbours?” the journalist asked, referring to Al Hilal.

“We do not have any neighbours at the moment,” Al-Malik replied.

The Al Shabab president then provided an update on Hamami’s immediate situation, explaining that the player was currently receiving treatment before joining up with the Saudi Arabia national team.

“Hamam is a great player. He is currently undergoing treatment, then he will go to the Saudi Arabia national team. I wish him all the best with them, but it is too early to discuss the renewal issue,” Al-Malik said in comments reported by the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat.

Hamam Al-Hamami’s contract with Al Shabab expires at the end of the current season. That means he will be able to sign an agreement with another club during the next winter transfer window and move to his new team for free the following summer.

The young Saudi winger played a key role in his country’s Gulf Arab Cup “Gulf 27” triumph. He scored in Saudi Arabia’s 2-0 victory over the United Arab Emirates in the final and was named the tournament’s best player.