Wijnaldum Joins Al-Ittihad on Deadline Day

Al-Ittihad has completed the signing of Dutch midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum on a free transfer, wrapping up the club's business on Deadline Day of the Saudi 2026 summer transfer window. The 35-year-old joins after leaving Al-Ettifaq earlier in the summer.

The club confirmed the move through its official media and social channels, registering Wijnaldum for one sporting season in the Roshn Saudi League. His contract runs for one year with an option to extend for an additional season, covering the 2026-27 campaign. He is listed as an Al-Ittihad player from September 2026 onward.

No transfer fee was paid to another club, with the deal recorded as a free transfer in current Saudi Pro League player records. Financial terms relating to salary or bonuses were not publicly disclosed.

Deadline-Day return

The Saudi summer transfer window closed in early September 2026, and Wijnaldum's signing was finalized and announced on the final day. He remains registered to play domestic league matches, and upcoming fixtures list him as an Al-Ittihad player in the Saudi Pro League schedule as of September 2026.

For fans in Riyadh, Jeddah and beyond, the arrival adds experience to Al-Ittihad's squad ahead of a new league season. Registration and eligibility for the transfer were handled through football regulatory and league registration channels, with no changes tied to public e-services required for the move.

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