Kalidou Koulibaly, a Senegalese defender, has joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal from Premier League team Chelsea, the two clubs confirmed on Sunday.
“We’ll continue to make history together,” Al-Hilal tweeted alongside a short video of Koulibaly.
The four-time Asian Champions League champions stated that Koulibaly’s contract would be extended until 2026, but no financial specifics were provided. According to British media, the Saudi club would pay roughly £17 million ($21.61 million) for the center-back.
“I’m here with those who make the glory in the present and the future,” said the Africa Cup of Nations champion.
After joining Chelsea from Napoli last July, Koulibaly, 32, scored two goals in 32 games across all competitions.
He is the second player to join Al-Hilal from the English Premier League, following the signing of Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves from Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday.
Since Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in January, the Saudi Pro League has grown more appealing to European players.
Al-Ittihad signed Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema earlier this month, and the club has also confirmed the signing of former Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante.
With 66 trophies, Al-Hilal is the most decorated club in Saudi Arabia and Asia, and they hold the record for league and Asian Champions championships with 18 and four, respectively.
The Riyadh-based team is looking to bolster their squad after losing its league and Asian Champions titles.
According to Spanish media, they are also interested in signing Manchester City player Bernardo Silva.
