Al-Ittihad are reportedly in advanced talks to sign former Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain defender Sergio Ramos on a free transfer.
The champions have been searching for a formidable centre-back in the European market for weeks and haven’t been successful in their pursuit so far.
Manchester United’s Raphael Varane and Marquinhos of Paris Saint-Germain had previously emerged as transfer targets for Al-Ittihad but recent reports confirmed that the pair are against the idea of leaving their respective clubs.
Their attempts to sign Gabriel Magalhaes from Arsenal also did not come to fruition as Mikel Arteta asserted the central defender would stay at the Emirates Stadium beyond the summer.
As a result, Al-Ittihad have now turned their attention to Marquinhos’ former teammate Sergio Ramos and the Spaniard could be convinced to make the move.
Ramos’ contract with Paris Saint-Germain recently expired and the 2010 World Cup winner is currently without a club.
According to a report by Saudi news outlet 24 Sport, Al-Ittihad have held positive talks with Ramos and are close to reaching an agreement with his camp.
The Jeddah giants are also looking to finalise terms with the 37-year-old in the next hours and complete the required paperwork for his transfer.
A potential move for Ramos would strengthen Al-Ittihad’s backline and would make him their fifth major summer signing following the acquisitions of Fabinho, N’Golo Kante, Jota, and former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema.
Despite spending over £70 million in transfers so far, Al-Ittihad are also reportedly keeping tabs on a possible deal for Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah.
Al-Ittihad have had a good start in their Saudi Pro League title defense earning back-to-back wins in their opening games.