Al-Ahli defender Roger Ibanez has emerged as the latest player from the Saudi Arabian club to attract interest from the Premier League, with Aston Villa contacting his representatives after negotiations over a new contract were halted.
The Brazil international’s current deal with Al-Ahli is due to expire at the end of next season. According to respected journalist Sasha Tavolieri, Ibanez has suspended talks over an extension because of interest from a number of English top-flight clubs.
Aston Villa are understood to be the club showing the clearest interest at this stage. The Premier League side has already opened communication with Ibanez’s representatives, although no formal offer has yet been submitted for the 27-year-old.
Ibanez’s situation follows the departure of Al-Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle, who resigned on Thursday to take charge of Newcastle United next season. The German is set to succeed Eddie Howe at the Premier League club.
Tavolieri reported the latest developments in a post on his personal account on X, identifying Ibanez as a potential new departure from Al-Ahli to the Premier League during the upcoming campaign.
The defender had previously been linked with English clubs during his time at AS Roma. Despite that interest, he chose to leave the Italian club and join Al-Ahli in the summer of 2023.
Since moving to Saudi Arabia, Ibanez has established himself as one of Al-Ahli’s most important players. He played a significant role as the club won the AFC Champions League Elite in two successive seasons and also ended a nine-year wait for the Saudi Super Cup.
His possible departure would therefore represent another significant change for Al-Ahli during the summer transfer window. The club is already preparing for life after Jaissle, whose resignation came as he moved towards a new role in England with Newcastle United.
There is currently no indication that Aston Villa have made an official bid, and the available information points only to contact with the player’s representatives. However, the Premier League interest has been enough for Ibanez to pause discussions over a new Al-Ahli contract.
The Brazilian’s existing agreement remains in place until the end of next season, leaving Al-Ahli with a decision to make as interest in one of their leading defenders grows. Aston Villa’s approach could develop further, although no transfer has been agreed and no formal proposal has been made.
