Neom SC has continued its dynamic summer recruitment drive by securing the signature of highly-rated Franco-Ivorian midfielder Saïmon Bouabré.
The announcement was made official on Saturday, August 2, as the Saudi Pro League newcomers unveiled their latest acquisition, only hours after sealing the transfer of Nathan Zézé.
Bouabré, 19, arrives from AS Monaco on a five-year contract that ties him to Neom SC until 2028.
The deal, reportedly valued at close to €10 million, underlines the club’s commitment to investing in young, emerging talent as they aim to establish themselves in Saudi Arabia’s top flight.
The attacking midfielder’s move had been anticipated in recent days, with negotiations progressing swiftly.
Neom SC, freshly promoted to the Saudi Pro League, is eager to build a squad capable of not just surviving but competing in the division, and Bouabré’s arrival is seen as a pivotal addition to their long-term vision.
Despite his youth, Bouabré brings with him a technical elegance and creative spark that had marked him out as one of Monaco’s promising prospects.
Having been nurtured in the academies of Saint-Étienne, Andrézieux-Bouthéon, and Air Bel before joining Monaco, his football journey has been one of steady development and perseverance.
However, with opportunities limited in Monaco’s senior side—Bouabré featured in just five professional matches—this transfer represents a crucial opportunity for the youngster to accelerate his career.
At Neom SC, he is expected to gain valuable first-team experience in a league that has witnessed exponential growth in recent years, both in competitiveness and international profile.
Currently valued at €300,000 on Transfermarkt, Bouabré’s market worth is poised for a significant boost should he flourish in the Saudi Pro League.
Neom SC’s coaching staff is reportedly keen to integrate him swiftly into their tactical setup, seeing him as a player who can bring creativity and tempo to their midfield.
Bouabré’s move also reflects Neom SC’s broader recruitment strategy—prioritizing youthful potential with an eye on building a sustainable football project.
His versatility in midfield, combined with his vision and technical skill, positions him as a key figure in the club’s ambition to not just maintain top-flight status but to become a competitive force in Saudi football.
As Neom SC continues to build momentum in the transfer market, all eyes will be on Bouabré to see if he can transform raw promise into consistent top-level performances.
His progression will not only be vital for Neom SC’s campaign but could also shape his trajectory towards becoming one of the standout talents in the league.
