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Al-Nassr have entered the final stages of negotiations to sign Al-Hilal striker Abdullah Al-Hamdan, with the 26-year-old prepared to terminate his contract with the Blue Waves to facilitate a controversial move across the Riyadh divide during the 2026 winter transfer window.
Al-Nassr Close to Signing Al-Hilal Striker Al-Hamdan in Controversial Transfer
The Saudi international forward is willing to tear up his current deal with Al-Hilal to complete the shock switch to their fierce rivals, according to Saudi outlet Arriyadiyah. Al-Hamdan’s existing contract expires just five days after the winter transfer window closes, making termination the cleanest path to facilitate the January move and accelerating talks between all parties involved.
Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus has played a decisive role in the potential transfer, having previously worked with Al-Hamdan during his time at Al-Hilal. Jesus has given the green light for Al-Nassr to pursue the striker, praising the Saudi player’s technical intelligence, physical strength, and tactical discipline while highlighting his ability to operate across the frontline and adapt to high-pressure matches.
The endorsement from Jesus has convinced Al-Nassr’s management that Al-Hamdan could provide reliable depth behind Cristiano Ronaldo while offering a different attacking profile. Direct transfers between Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr are rare and controversial due to the fierce rivalry between the two Riyadh clubs, making this potential move particularly significant for Saudi football.
When questioned about transfer plans, Jesus remained diplomatic, stating that Al-Nassr is currently competing for both the league title and the AFC Champions League. “We are focused on winning both competitions. It’s a challenging and competitive season ahead, but we will work hard to secure titles and make our fans happy,” the Portuguese coach said, notably avoiding direct comment on Al-Hamdan’s potential arrival.
The potential signing represents a shift in power dynamics within the Saudi Pro League’s most intense rivalry, with Al-Nassr looking to strengthen their attacking options as they pursue domestic and continental success. The move would see Al-Hamdan become Al-Nassr’s first signing of the 2026 winter window if negotiations reach a successful conclusion.
