Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou faces an uncertain future at Al-Hilal after reports linked him with a move to Saudi Pro League rivals Al-Nassr during the summer transfer window.
Speculation surrounding the Atlas Lions star has intensified in recent days, but reports claiming he has entered negotiations with Al-Nassr are understood to be inaccurate.
Instead, the uncertainty stems from Al-Hilal’s plans to restructure their foreign-player registrations ahead of the new season.
Squad registration dispute
According to reports, Al-Hilal are considering registering Bounou exclusively for the AFC Champions League Elite in a bid to free up a foreign-player slot for an attacking reinforcement in domestic competitions.
The Moroccan international is reportedly unwilling to accept a reduced role that would limit him to continental fixtures.
That disagreement has fuelled speculation that the 34-year-old could seek a move away from the club before the transfer window closes.
No Al-Nassr agreement
Rumours of a switch to Al-Nassr gained traction after images of Bounou wearing the club’s shirt circulated on social media.
However, there is no evidence that negotiations have taken place between the goalkeeper and Cristiano Ronaldo’s club.
Bounou remains under contract with Al-Hilal, and no agreement has been reached regarding a transfer.
Al-Hilal searching for compromise
Head coach Simone Inzaghi is reportedly open to using Bounou as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper in the AFC Champions League Elite, while Mohammed Al-Owais would take over for domestic competitions.
Club officials are understood to be attempting to convince the Moroccan international to accept that arrangement, believing it would allow Al-Hilal to remain competitive across all competitions.
Should Bounou reject the proposal, the possibility of a summer departure could become increasingly realistic.
Impressive record in Saudi Arabia
Since joining Al-Hilal from Sevilla in 2023 in a reported €21 million move, Bounou has established himself as one of the standout goalkeepers in the Saudi Pro League.
He has made 128 appearances for the club, recording 51 clean sheets while conceding 116 goals.
During his time in Riyadh, the Morocco international has helped Al-Hilal win five domestic trophies, including one Saudi Pro League title, two King’s Cups and two Saudi Super Cups, cementing his reputation as one of the club’s most influential players.
