Abdoulaye Doucouré has signed for Saudi Pro League newcomers Neom SC after leaving Everton as a free agent, ending speculation linking him to several other clubs.
The Malian international defensive midfielder had attracted interest from Al Hilal, Al Ettifaq, and Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire, according to Africascore. However, the 31-year-old opted to continue his career in Saudi Arabia, choosing Neom SC as his next destination.
Neom SC, newly promoted to the top tier of Saudi football, has been active in the transfer market as it seeks to assemble a competitive squad capable of surviving and thriving in the league.
The signing of Doucouré is the latest in a series of high-profile additions aimed at strengthening the team ahead of their debut campaign in the Pro League.
The club confirmed the move through an announcement on its official Twitter account on Friday, unveiling Doucouré as their latest recruit.
The midfielder joins without a transfer fee after his contract with Premier League side Everton came to an end this summer.
Doucouré, who has been capped by Mali, brings extensive top-flight experience to his new club. His career in England began at Watford, where he spent several seasons as a key figure in midfield, before joining Everton in 2020.
At Goodison Park, he was known for his physicality, work rate, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.
Neom SC’s promotion to the Saudi Pro League has sparked a flurry of transfer activity, with the club aiming to blend experience and talent in preparation for the challenges ahead.
The arrival of a seasoned professional like Doucouré is viewed as a significant boost to their midfield options.
For the player, the move marks a new chapter after nearly a decade in English football. His combination of strength, tactical awareness, and leadership is expected to play a central role in Neom SC’s bid to establish themselves among the Saudi elite.
The deal also highlights the growing appeal of the Saudi Pro League to established international players.
In recent seasons, the league has attracted a wave of high-profile signings, with clubs investing heavily to raise the standard and global profile of the competition.
Neom SC, one of the latest entrants to this expanding football landscape, appears intent on making its mark quickly.
The signing of Doucouré not only strengthens the squad on the pitch but also signals the club’s ambition to compete against the league’s more established sides.
Doucouré is expected to join his new teammates immediately as pre-season preparations intensify.
With the league campaign fast approaching, the midfielder will be aiming to adapt swiftly to his new surroundings and help guide Neom SC through the challenges of their inaugural season in the Saudi Pro League.
The club’s management has expressed confidence that his experience at the highest levels of European football will be invaluable as they look to secure top-flight survival and lay the groundwork for long-term success.
