July 23, 2025 – Riyadh/Abidjan
In a sudden reversal, Eric Bailly’s proposed transfer to Saudi club Al Najmah SC has officially collapsed.
Despite a verbal agreement being in place and all parties progressing toward a final deal, sources confirm that Bailly himself decided to walk away from negotiations, effectively ending talks.
The Ivorian defender, currently a free agent, had been expected to finalize his move this week. However, the decision to step away now leaves Al Najmah without its intended defensive reinforcement, and Bailly once again explores other options in the market.
No alternative destination has yet been confirmed, but interest in the experienced centre-back remains strong across Europe and the Middle East.