Truth behind Yassine Bounou’s reported Al-Nassr move revealed

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou’s future at Al-Hilal remains uncertain after reports linked him with a move to Saudi Pro League rivals Al-Nassr during the summer transfer window.

Speculation over the Atlas Lions star intensified on social media in recent days, but reports suggesting Bounou has entered negotiations with Al-Nassr are understood to be unfounded.

Instead, uncertainty over the 34-year-old’s future stems from his role at Al-Hilal as the club considers changes to its squad registration.

Dispute over squad role

Al-Hilal are reportedly exploring the possibility of registering Bounou only for the AFC Champions League Elite in order to free up a foreign-player place for an attacking signing in domestic competitions.

However, the Moroccan international is said to be unwilling to accept a reduced role that would see him feature exclusively in continental matches.

That difference in opinion has fuelled speculation that Bounou could seek a move away from the club before the transfer window closes.

No agreement with Al-Nassr

Images circulating online showing Bounou in an Al-Nassr shirt prompted rumours of a switch across Riyadh, but there is no indication that talks have taken place between the player and Cristiano Ronaldo’s club.

Bounou remains under contract with Al-Hilal, and there is currently no confirmed agreement regarding a transfer.

Al-Hilal seeking solution

Head coach Simone Inzaghi is reportedly open to keeping Bounou as the club’s goalkeeper in Asian competition, while Mohammed Al-Owais would take over for domestic fixtures.

Club officials are understood to be attempting to persuade the Moroccan to accept that arrangement, believing it would strengthen Al-Hilal’s chances of competing for every available trophy this season.

Should Bounou reject the proposal, however, the possibility of a summer departure could become increasingly likely.

Successful spell in Saudi Arabia

Since joining Al-Hilal from Spanish side Sevilla in 2023 for a reported €21 million, Bounou has established himself as one of the Saudi Pro League’s standout goalkeepers.

The Moroccan has made 128 appearances for the club, keeping 51 clean sheets while conceding 116 goals.

During that period, he has helped Al-Hilal win five domestic trophies, including one Saudi Pro League title, two King’s Cups and two Saudi Super Cups, cementing his place among the club’s most influential players.