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Gini Wijnaldum nears Al-Ittihad transfer after Chelsea interest fades

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 7:20 PM

Last updated Sep 6, 2026

Gini Wijnaldum nears Al-Ittihad transfer after Chelsea interest fades

Summary

Former Liverpool midfielder Gini Wijnaldum is moving toward a deal with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad. The 35-year-old is undergoing a medical examination to finalize a 1+1 contract following his departure from Al-Ettifaq. Chelsea had monitored the midfielder as a potential target this summer, but the London club ultimately opted not to pursue a deal. Wijnaldum spent the 2025/26 campaign in Saudi Arabia, recording 16 goals and six assists in league play. His career includes a successful five-year tenure at Liverpool, where he played a key role in the club's 2019 Champions League victory and their 2019/20 Premier League title win. He previously joined Al-Ettifaq from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Gini Wijnaldum is undergoing a medical with Al-Ittihad.
•The midfielder will sign a 1+1 contract with the Saudi club.
•Chelsea explored a potential move for the player but decided against an approach.
•Wijnaldum recorded 16 goals and six assists during the 2025/26 season.
•The former Liverpool midfielder became a free agent after leaving Al-Ettifaq.

Latest Updates

7:20 PMYahoo Sports — Former Liverpool star set to complete transfer move amid Chelsea links

What they're saying

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Liverpool Favourite Gini Wijnaldum Set for New Move After Chelsea InterestFormer Liverpool midfielder Gini Wijnaldum appears to have settled his future, with the 35-year-old reportedly undergoing a me...
— Yahoo Sports

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