Idrissa Gana Gueye nears Al Diriyah move as Senegal midfielder lines up Saudi switch

Idrissa Gana Gueye is close to joining Saudi Arabian club Al Diriyah on a short-term deal as he prepares to leave European football for a new challenge in the Gulf.

The 36-year-old Senegal international defensive midfielder is in advanced talks with Al Diriyah and an agreement between the parties has been reached, according to Foot Mercato. The move is expected to be made official in the coming days once the final administrative details are completed.

Gueye is set to sign a one-year contract with the option of extending for a further season, giving both player and club flexibility over the length of his stay in Saudi Arabia.

New chapter after long European career

The transfer would mark the start of a new phase in Gueye’s career following a lengthy spell at the top level in European football.

The midfielder, valued at €500,000 by Transfermarkt, has built a reputation for his defensive discipline, tactical awareness and work-rate over many seasons in elite competitions. Al Diriyah are counting on those attributes, as well as his experience and leadership, to strengthen their squad as they look to finalise the deal quickly.

Gueye is part of a growing group of experienced players choosing to continue their careers in Saudi Arabia, as the league increasingly targets seasoned professionals from Europe and beyond.

Salary and status

At his previous club Everton, Gueye was on an annual salary of €4,686,882, equivalent to 3,046,473,300 FCFA. His prospective move to Al Diriyah would therefore represent not only a sporting shift but also a significant change in his contractual environment.

While no financial details of the agreement with Al Diriyah have been disclosed, the club is expected to offer a package befitting a player of his status and track record at international level and in top European leagues.

Final steps before announcement

Only the remaining paperwork and formalities now stand between Gueye and the official confirmation of his transfer, with all sides understood to be keen to bring the process to a swift conclusion.

Once completed, the move will see the Senegal midfielder add Saudi football to a career that has already spanned several major European clubs, with Al Diriyah hoping his presence will add stability on the pitch and authority in the dressing room.