Al Nassr Sign Portugal Midfielder Samu Costa

Al Nassr have completed the permanent signing of Portugal midfielder Samu Costa from RCD Mallorca, with both clubs confirming the agreement in an official announcement on 9 August 2026. The move stands out as one of the club's marquee summer additions ahead of its Saudi Pro League title defence.

Costa has put pen to paper on a long-term deal running until June 2030, a four-year commitment from mid-2026. Reported figures on the transfer fee vary: some accounts point to a €22 million buyout clause being triggered — roughly SAR 88 million at an exchange rate of €1 to around SAR 4 — while other local reports cite a fee of €9 million, about SAR 36 million, paid in two instalments. The deal also activated a 20% sell-on clause for his former club Almería, reported at just over €4 million, or around SAR 16 million.

To complete and register the signing, Al Nassr obtained the required Financial Efficiency Certificate under Saudi football financial regulations. The transfer went through standard administrative steps, including player registration and approval by the Saudi Pro League and compliance with the sector's regulatory and financial oversight frameworks before the move could be officially confirmed.

Costa did not take long to make an impact. He made his Al Nassr debut on 15 August 2026 in the league opener against Al Fateh, scoring in a 3–0 win and confirming his registration and eligibility for competition.

For fans across Riyadh, Jeddah and beyond, the arrival signals Al Nassr's intent to strengthen its midfield as the new season gets under way, adding depth and quality as the club looks to defend its crown.

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