Abha have moved close to finalizing one of their most notable defensive signings of the summer transfer window, after reaching a full agreement with Senegalese defender Abdou Diallo (30) to sign a two-year contract, pending the completion of official procedures and the announcement of the deal in the coming days.

The anticipated signing comes as part of Abha's management efforts to strengthen the backline with a player possessing extensive international experience, in preparation for the new season. Diallo is one of the names that has accumulated distinguished experience in European and Asian stadiums.

A career rich with major clubs. Diallo has a decorated career. He graduated from the French AS Monaco academy, before representing German Mainz, then Borussia Dortmund, and then moved to Paris Saint-Germain in a notable transfer in 2019, winning several domestic titles with the Parisian club. He also had a loan spell with German RB Leipzig, before moving to Qatari club Al-Arabi in the summer of 2023, and later played on loan for Al-Duhail.

International achievements. On the international stage, Diallo has represented Senegal since 2021 and was part of the generation that won the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. He also participated with the Lions of Teranga in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He is distinguished by his ability to play as a center-back, as well as being able to fill in as a left-back when needed, which gives Abha's coaching staff multiple tactical options.

A long-awaited deal. If the deal is officially completed, Abha will gain a defender with vast experience at the highest European and international levels, in a move that reflects the club's ambition to strengthen its squad with elements capable of making an impact in the upcoming season.