Al-Shabab’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements took an ambitious turn with a failed attempt to sign Al-Fayha left-back Fares Abdi, initially proposing a complex player-plus-cash deal involving Senegal international Habib Diallo.
In a bold move aimed at securing the services of the highly rated full-back, the Riyadh-based club reportedly offered 5 million riyals along with a player exchange package that included Diallo and Brazilian forward Carlos Júnior.
The strategy, according to local sources, was intended to present a tempting all-in-one offer to Al-Fayha — one that ultimately fell short of expectations.
The proposal was swiftly turned down by Al-Fayha’s management, who are believed to have preferred alternative transfer targets, including Haroune Kamara and Nawaf Al-Saadi.
Unconvinced by the valuation and the players offered, the club opted against entertaining the exchange.
In the end, Al-Shabab were forced to return to the negotiating table with a more traditional offer.
The deal was finalised for 8 million riyals, to be paid in three installments, securing the arrival of Fares Abdi without the inclusion of any player swaps.
The failed deal has nonetheless reignited speculation around Diallo’s future at the club.
Since joining Al-Shabab last year from RC Strasbourg, the 28-year-old striker has struggled to cement his place in the starting lineup and remains on the periphery of the squad.
Though the refusal to part with him in the trade may suggest some residual faith in his abilities, the fact that he was offered as part of the deal has raised questions about his long-term role.
Diallo’s underwhelming spell in Saudi Arabia contrasts starkly with his previous success in Ligue 1, where he was known for his sharp instincts in front of goal.
At Al-Shabab, however, his form has been inconsistent, and competition for attacking spots has made it difficult for him to establish momentum.
As Fares Abdi prepares to join his new teammates in Riyadh, Diallo’s situation remains clouded.
With the transfer window still open and squad reshuffles ongoing, his future could hinge on upcoming decisions from Al-Shabab’s technical staff.
For now, what is clear is that while Al-Shabab have secured their defensive target, the uncertainty surrounding one of their key attacking signings continues to grow.
