Sources told Okaz that Al-Ahli management is close to reaching an agreement to sign Al-Fateh midfielder Naif Masoud during the current summer transfer window, as part of strengthening the first football team's squad ahead of the new sports season.

Okaz exclusively revealed on May 28, 2026, that Al-Ahli was interested in signing the defensive midfielder after he entered the list of targeted names to bolster the pivot position, and negotiations have progressed recently to the point where the deal is close to being finalized.

Al-Ahli's interest in signing Naif Masoud comes after his impressive performances with Al-Fateh last season, as he established himself as one of the top local defensive midfielders thanks to his defensive and organizational roles in the midfield.

The player made 25 appearances in the Saudi Roshn League, 18 of them as a starter, totaling 1,510 minutes, and scored one goal, in addition to achieving outstanding defensive numbers, most notably 131 ball recoveries and 61 recoveries under high press, as well as excelling in duels with a success rate exceeding 60%.

Al-Ahli's move is part of the management's plan to strengthen the team with distinguished local players, enhancing the technical staff's options ahead of the new season, which includes the team's participation in several local and continental competitions, most notably the Saudi Roshn League, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup, the Saudi Super Cup, the AFC Elite Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup.