Saudi Premier League champions Al-Ittihad club completed the signature of exciting Malian international Mahamadou Doumbia from Belgian side Royal Antwerp, just before the end of the summer transfer window.
The deal is reportedly worth around €16 million for the young midfielder, with the Belgian club making a very significant profit on a player they acquired for about €700,000 just two years ago.
The 21-year-old signed a five-year deal that will keep him tied to the club until 2030 and will earn about €73,654 per week, which could take his earnings to well over €19 million over the course of his contract.
Al-Ittihad initially showed interest in signing Brazil international Pedro from Zenit Saint Petersburg, but the Russian club were reluctant to sell their prized man. However, the arrival of Doumbia is with much promise and provides enough depth as they target a successful title defence.
The Mali midfielder developed into a hugely influential figure at Royal Antwerp and continues his remarkable rise, after only moving abroad from his home country in 2023, when he moved to Belgium from JMG Bamako.
Transfer fee and contract details
Al-Ittihad agreed to pay a fee in the region of around €16 million for the total package, to complete the signature of the Mali midfielder.
Royal Antwerp had previously rejected offers from Sevilla and Juventus, while Eintracht Frankfurt were also reportedly keen in his services, before he was snatched up by Al-Ittihad.
The 21-year-old showed glimpses of his quality with a composed display on his full debut for the club, helping them to a 1-0 win over Al Wehda in the Kings Cup on Tuesday.
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Salary breakdown
Per Capology, Mahamadou Doumbia will receive a weekly earning of around €73,654 from a basic salary of €58,846 and about €14,808 in bonuses. The total annual earnings of the midfielder could amount up to €3.83 million and over €19 million for his five-year contract.
He joins the club as their second-most expensive signing this summer, with their total investment set to exceed €35 million.
From Antwerp to Jeddah
Mahamadou Doumbia’s moved to Belgium just two years ago from his native country and has developed into one of the most exciting youngsters in football.
Now set for a spell with Al-Ittihad, he will be keen to learn from the club’s experienced midfielders and also provide the needed depth as they aim for a successful title defence.
