Al Nassr’s first signing of the summer transfer window has been publicly revealed by a Spanish club official – before the Saudi side have announced it themselves.
Mallorca media chief: ‘Deal is done between Mallorca and Al Nassr’
Real Mallorca’s media officer, Hector Martin, has confirmed that Portuguese midfielder Samu Costa is joining Al Nassr, and that an agreement has already been finalised between the two clubs.
Martin told Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadiyah: “الصفقة حسمت بين مايوركا والنصر، وتم التوصل الى اتفاق نهايي بينهما بشان انتقال سامو كوستا، بعد تفوق النادي السعودي على عرض لايبزيج الالماني وعروض اوروبية اخرى”.
His remarks indicate that Al Nassr have beaten RB Leipzig and other European sides to the 25-year-old’s signature.
The Saudi club has yet to issue an official statement, but the comments from Mallorca’s camp effectively confirm Costa as Al Nassr’s first incoming player of the upcoming summer window.
Reported €9m fee seen as a bargain
Earlier reporting from Saudi daily Okaz suggested that Al Nassr had reached agreement to sign Costa for a fee of €9m, to be paid in two instalments.
The figure has been described locally as relatively modest for a European-based international midfielder, particularly given the level of competition for his services.
The move will also be notable as Al Nassr’s first piece of transfer business ahead of the new season, with the Riyadh club constrained so far by financial difficulties that have delayed new signings.
Al Nassr’s first summer deal amid financial strain
Al Nassr, runners-up in the Saudi Pro League last season and one of the country’s most high-profile clubs, have been seeking to strengthen their squad around star forward Cristiano Ronaldo.
However, financial issues have slowed their activity in the market, leaving them without any confirmed arrivals heading into the summer window.
Costa’s signing, once officially announced, will therefore mark a crucial step in their squad rebuilding, and signals that Al Nassr remain able to compete with European clubs for established talent.
Costa’s club career rooted in Spain
Samu Costa has built the bulk of his professional career in Spain.
The Portuguese midfielder spent three seasons with Almeria from 2020 to 2023, becoming a regular in their midfield and helping them consolidate their position in La Liga.
He then joined Real Mallorca, where he has been playing up to the present move, further enhancing his reputation as a combative, hard-working central midfielder suited to high-intensity football.
His performances in Spain drew attention from several clubs across Europe, leading to the recent interest from RB Leipzig and others, which Al Nassr have now reportedly outbid.
Limited but notable role with Portugal
On the international stage, Costa’s involvement with Portugal has been more limited but still noteworthy.
He began his senior journey with the national team in October 2024, featuring in a squad that included Cristiano Ronaldo. Since then, he has made seven appearances for his country.
Costa was also called up for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. During the tournament, he played only once, coming on as a substitute for 20 minutes in Portugal’s goalless draw with Colombia in the third round of the group stage.
Despite his restricted game time with the national side, Al Nassr appear convinced that Costa’s blend of La Liga experience and international exposure makes him a strong addition to their midfield as they prepare for the new campaign.
