Al-Diriyah is on the verge of announcing one of its most prominent summer signings, as it has neared an agreement with Portuguese defender Diogo Leite, formerly of German club Union Berlin, on a free transfer ahead of the new season of the Saudi Roshn League.

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According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, negotiations between the two parties have reached their final stages, with an almost full agreement on the contract terms, paving the way for an official announcement in the coming days. Al-Diriyah's move comes as part of the management's plan to strengthen the team with players possessing European experience, following promotion to the Roshn League, aiming to make a strong impression in its debut season among the elite clubs. Diogo Leite's name had previously been linked with interest from several European clubs, most notably Benfica, Wolfsburg, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Real Sociedad, before he nears his first experience in Saudi football. The Portuguese defender is 27 years old and began his stint with Union Berlin on loan from Porto in the summer of 2022, before the German club activated the permanent purchase clause after one year. During his time with Union Berlin, Leite played 136 matches across various competitions, scoring two goals and providing four assists, establishing himself as a key pillar in the team's defense. Al-Diriyah continues its strong activity in the summer transfer market, seeking to build a team capable of competing and delivering distinguished performances in its first appearance in the Saudi Roshn Professional League.