Ivorian striker Yohan Boli faces Saudi interest amid Antalyaspor agreement

Ivorian striker Yohan Boli, who was on the verge of completing a move to Turkish side Antalyaspor, has emerged as a target for Saudi Arabian club Al Shabab, creating fresh uncertainty over his immediate future.

The 31-year-old forward, currently a free agent following the expiry of his contract with Qatari outfit Al Gharafa at the end of last season, has been weighing up options as interest in his services continues to grow.

Antalyaspor appeared set to secure his signature, with reports indicating a two-year agreement had already been reached and only awaited finalisation.

However, Al Shabab are now pushing to lure the Ivorian to the Saudi Pro League, putting forward a one-year deal with the possibility of a further extension.

According to Africafoot, the Saudi club has contacted the player directly in an effort to persuade him to choose their project over a return to European football.

Antalyaspor’s proposal, offering longer stability and the chance to compete once more in a European league, remains firmly on the table. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that, despite the late Saudi approach, the Turkish side are still favourites to conclude the deal.

Yet the intervention of Al Shabab underscores how highly valued Boli remains in the Gulf, where he spent the past four years of his career.

Boli’s preference is believed to lean towards Europe, where the higher level of competition could provide him with the platform to re-establish himself after an extended spell in Qatar.

The striker began his professional journey in France, progressing through the ranks at CS Avion before moving to SC Sedan. His career then took him to Belgium, where he played for KSV Roeselare, RCS Verviers and Saint-Trond, earning recognition for his strength, mobility and goal-scoring instincts.

In 2020, he made the move to the Middle East with Al Rayyan, later featuring for Qatar SC, Al Khor and Al Gharafa. His time in Qatar helped enhance his reputation in Gulf football, but the lure of a return to Europe appears to be a decisive factor as he contemplates his next step.

Market observers currently value the Ivorian at around €2 million, according to Transfermarkt, a figure that reflects both his experience and proven ability in front of goal.

Despite approaching the latter stages of his career, Boli remains a sought-after option for clubs seeking an experienced and versatile forward.

For Antalyaspor, securing Boli would represent a significant reinforcement as they aim to strengthen their attacking department ahead of the new campaign.

For Al Shabab, his arrival would add international pedigree to their squad as the Saudi Pro League continues to attract talent from across the globe.

As the saga develops, the coming hours and days could prove decisive. While Antalyaspor’s deal appears closest to completion, Al Shabab’s late move has introduced a degree of unpredictability, leaving Boli with a career-defining choice between European stability and the financial allure of Saudi Arabia.