In preparation for his transition to Al-Kholood, Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong arrived in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.
After both teams agreed on a transfer fee, the 30-year-old is expected to depart PAOK for the Saudi team before the 2024–2025 season.
The Nigerian international settled his personal terms with his suitors last week; all that’s needed to make the transition are medicals.
Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano wrote on X, “William Troost-Ekong and his agent David Moss are on their way to Saudi Arabia as he’s signing for Al Khalood.”
Troost-Ekong has been on the radar of Saudi clubs for some time, and Greek outlet Gazzetta Greece last week confirmed that Shabab Al-Ahli also sent in their offer for the experienced defender.
Shabab Al-Ahli were banking on their manager, Paulo Souza, to help facilitate the signing of the Nigerian.The pair worked together at Salernitana before the Portuguese coach was dismissed in October 2023, four months after Ekong left for PAOK Salonika in Greece.
As things stand, Shabab Al-Ahli may have lost the battle, with the experienced defender now on the brink of joining rivals Al-Kholood.
Troost-Ekong won the 2023/2024 Greek Super League title with PAOK FC but will pursue his trade in the Middle East next season.
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the defender will put pen to paper after his medical and add to the growing list of Super Eagles players who have played in the Saudi Arabian top flight, including Odion Ighalo and Ahmed Musa.
