Hicham Boudaoui set to leave OGC Nice for Saudi Pro League move

Hicham Boudaoui is on the verge of leaving OGC Nice after an agreement was reached for the Algeria international to join Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.

The 26-year-old midfielder is expected to sign a three-year contract with Al-Ittihad in a transfer worth about €8m, according to Foot Mercato. The deal is not yet officially completed, however, with final approval from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) still required before the move can be confirmed.

Boudaoui has spent several seasons with OGC Nice and has established himself as an important player for the French club. His contract was due to run until June 2027, but Nice were understood to be open to allowing him to leave during the current transfer window.

The midfielder is coming off a successful campaign with Le Gym and has continued to feature regularly for the Algeria national team. He has also represented the Fennecs at major international tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) and the World Cup this summer.

A move to Al-Ittihad would give Boudaoui the opportunity to experience the Saudi Pro League for the first time. The transfer is effectively at an advanced stage, although the outstanding PIF authorisation means the clubs have not yet been able to announce the arrival formally.

Boudaoui’s estimated market value is currently around €12m, according to Transfermarkt. His annual salary at present is reported to be €290,000, equivalent to 188,500,000 CFA francs (FCFA).

His departure would come as OGC Nice prepare for their third Ligue 1 match of the season against Le Mans. The source article lists 1xBet odds for that fixture, with Nice priced at 1.69 to win, a draw at 3.60 and a Le Mans victory at 4.50.

Boudaoui joined OGC Nice after developing his career in Algeria and has been a regular presence in the club’s midfield during his time on the French Riviera. His performances have helped him retain a place in the Algeria set-up, while his international involvement has increased his profile beyond French football.

Subject to the final PIF clearance, the midfielder will now be expected to end his spell with OGC Nice and begin a new chapter with Al-Ittihad. The Saudi club’s agreement with Nice and the player’s planned three-year contract mean only the final administrative step remains before the transfer can be made official.