Josh Brownhill in action for Burnley during the 2024 Championship season, featured in article about his potential Saudi Arabia move. Credit: CaughtOffside
Credit: Credit: CaughtOffside
Josh Brownhill has agreed terms with Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab on a free transfer, choosing the lucrative offer over interest from Leeds United and other Championship clubs.
Josh Brownhill Set for Al-Shabab Move After Agreeing Saudi Terms Despite Leeds Interest
Former Burnley midfielder Josh Brownhill is set to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab after agreeing terms on a lucrative free transfer, despite sustained interest from Leeds United throughout the summer window. The 29-year-old’s decision represents a significant blow to Leeds’ midfield recruitment plans, with the Saudi offer proving too financially attractive to decline.
The deal requires final approval from the Financial Sustainability Committee of the Saudi Professional League before official completion, with Brownhill expected to sign a two-year contract worth significantly more than any English club proposal. Multiple sources confirm the former Championship standout prioritized financial security as a free agent, with reports suggesting wages around £100,000 per week from Saudi interests far exceeded Leeds’ capacity.
Leeds United remained among the clubs competing for Brownhill’s signature alongside Leicester City, Ipswich Town, Wolves, and Southampton, but were ultimately outbid financially by Al-Shabab’s proposal. The Yorkshire club completed ten summer signings but failed to secure the midfielder who left Burnley when his contract expired in July 2025, with wage demands proving a decisive factor in negotiations.
Brownhill’s imminent Saudi move concludes weeks of speculation about his next destination, with the player’s camp reportedly making their decision this week after weighing multiple Championship and Premier League options. His departure to the Middle East reflects the growing financial pull of Saudi football, particularly for experienced players seeking career-defining contracts.
While no official announcement has been made by Al-Shabab or the player’s representatives, the latest reports from September 4, 2025, strongly indicate the Saudi move is imminent pending final procedural approvals. Leeds must now reassess their midfield options having missed out on a key target who could have significantly strengthened their Championship promotion ambitions.
