Al-Diriyah is on the verge of signing Portuguese defender Diogo Leite, with just a medical examination still to be done. The move has the backing of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which wants to boost the league’s international profile. Diogo Leite’s arrival would give newly promoted Al-Diriyah’s defensive lineup a serious upgrade.
- Diogo Leite is set to join Al-Diriyah pending a medical examination.
- The move is supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
- Leite currently plays for 1.FC Union Berlin in the Bundesliga.
Diogo Leite’s Transfer to Al-Diriyah
Al-Diriyah are close to getting a deal done for Diogo Leite, a Portuguese center-back who’s currently playing for 1.FC Union Berlin in the Bundesliga. According to a recent tweet by @Saudifutbol, Leite who has been a solid and reliable performer for Union Berlin since his move from FC Porto, is expected to wrap up his transfer to Al-Diriyah once he passes a medical.
AL-DIRIYAH CLOSE TO SIGNING DIOGO LEITE… 🇵🇹
Offer made and the Portuguese defender has already given the green light. Medical pending — signing expected in the coming days, per @k7aled_otb https://t.co/wXmVsGNUXd
— All About SPL 🔔 🇸🇦 (@Saudifutbol)
June 24, 2026
This signing reflects the Saudi Pro League’s broader plan, backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund to bring in high-caliber international talent and raise the league’s standing on the global stage. Diogo Leite, born in Porto Portugal, started his football journey at Leixões SC before moving into FC Porto’s youth setup. He made his professional debut with Porto and then headed to Union Berlin back in 2023.
Diogo Leite’s Career and Impact
Standing at 1.90 meters, Leite is well known for his defensive ability and versatility, he can play as both a center-back and a left-back. His market value as of May 2026 sits at around €12 million. While he hasn’t yet broken into Portugal’s senior national team, his performances at club level have made him a pretty sought-after name in the transfer market.
Saudi Pro League’s Growth Strategy
Al-Diriyah’s move for Diogo Leite is part of a much bigger trend in the Saudi Pro League, which has been aggressively going after international players to lift the league’s profile. The league’s growing ambition, as seen with clubs like Al-Qadsiah’s rise and Al-Hilal’s managerial ambitions, shows just how serious it is about becoming a major force on the world stage.
With huge financial resources behind it, the Saudi Pro League looks well placed to become a real hub for football talent, pulling in players and coaches from all over the world to its fast growing platform.
