Al-Ettifaq Weigh Options as Demarai Gray Exit Looms — Al-Ghannam Future Key

Al-Ettifaq are expected to take a patient approach before deciding on whether to sign a new foreign right winger following the anticipated exit of Demarai Gray.

One of the key factors influencing their decision is the situation surrounding Khalid Al-Ghannam, who is currently on loan at Al-Hilal. The 24-year-old Saudi winger made a notable impact off the bench in the recent 4-3 win over Manchester City, increasing his stock in the local market.

Al-Hilal are considering activating Al-Ghannam’s $16 million buy option, after initially signing him on loan from Ettifaq for around $3 million in 2024. Meanwhile, rivals Al-Ahli have also shown strong interest in acquiring his services.

With Al-Ghannam’s departure increasingly likely, Ettifaq are holding off on making any decisions about replacing Gray until the winger’s future is resolved. The club is reportedly prioritizing balance in its foreign player quota before moving for a new right-sided attacker.