In what could become the most sensational transfer story of the season, Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq is preparing a mammoth €300 million bid to sign Abdoulaye Doucouré and Dominic Calvert-Lewin from Everton. If completed, the deal would represent the biggest double signing in the league’s history and place Al-Ettifaq firmly on the global footballing map.
Sources close to both clubs have confirmed that negotiations are already underway, and the Saudi club — backed by considerable financial resources — is determined to bring the Everton stars to Dammam before the start of the 2025/26 campaign.
A New Era for Al-Ettifaq
Al-Ettifaq, managed by former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, has already made waves with a series of high-profile signings, but this deal would eclipse anything previously seen in Saudi football. The move is part of a broader strategy to transform the Saudi Pro League into one of the world’s most competitive football divisions.
With the league already attracting talents like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Riyad Mahrez in previous windows, this bid signals the start of a new phase — targeting top-performing players still playing key roles in Europe’s top leagues.
Everton’s Best Under the Spotlight
Both Abdoulaye Doucouré and Dominic Calvert-Lewin have been central to Everton’s efforts in recent seasons. Doucouré, the powerful and versatile midfielder, has become a fan favorite at Goodison Park for his relentless work rate, crucial goals, and leadership in the middle of the park. His ability to cover ground, break up play, and contribute offensively has made him indispensable.
Calvert-Lewin, meanwhile, remains one of the most dangerous strikers in English football when fit. With his aerial dominance, clinical finishing, and strong hold-up play, the 27-year-old has consistently been Everton’s go-to man in front of goal. Despite injury setbacks, his market value and importance remain high — especially in a league like the Saudi Pro League that values star power and goal-scoring pedigree.
Contract Talks Put on Ice
Both players were previously in talks with Everton about contract extensions, but those discussions have now been placed on hold. The proposed deal from Al-Ettifaq reportedly includes wages of over €40 million per year for each player, along with performance-related bonuses and commercial incentives.
Sources inside Goodison Park have confirmed that the offer has caused both players to pause contract talks, as they weigh the prospect of securing life-changing deals in a fast-growing league.
Everton, meanwhile, are at a crossroads. While manager Sean Dyche would be reluctant to lose two of his best players in one window, the Merseyside club continues to battle financial instability and potential Premier League sanctions. A €300 million windfall could resolve several financial headaches, allow for stadium development, and enable a squad rebuild.
A Bold Statement from Saudi Arabia
This move represents a major shift in the Saudi Pro League’s recruitment strategy. Rather than signing older players at the tail end of their careers, Al-Ettifaq is going after proven Premier League talent still operating at peak performance levels.
If successful, the deal will serve as a major coup for the club and the league. It will also be seen as a direct challenge to European leagues, particularly the Premier League, in terms of retaining talent.
What Happens Next?
As of now, no official confirmation has been made by either club, but insiders suggest that negotiations are progressing quickly. Al-Ettifaq is prepared to finalize the deal before the start of their pre-season tour in July.
With eyes from across the footballing world watching, this transfer could mark a defining moment — both for Al-Ettifaq and for the global football market.
For Everton fans, however, it raises a painful question: can the club afford to turn down a historic offer, even if it means losing their two most vital players?
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