William Troost-Ekong, the Super Eagles’ captain, is on the verge of completing a transfer to Al Kholood of the Saudi Pro League from Greek side PAOK.
The deal, valued around €1.2 million ($1.3 million), is awaiting final approval.
The 30-year-old defender has agreed to a two-year contract with an option for an additional year. Troost-Ekong is en route to Saudi Arabia to finalize the move. Portuguese manager Paulo Duarte, who has a history with African football through his previous roles with Burkina Faso and Togo, is expected to oversee his integration into the team.
Troost-Ekong has been with PAOK since leaving Watford in the summer of 2023. During his tenure with the Greek side, he played a key role in securing the Super League title and was named the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) player of the tournament earlier this year, with Nigeria finishing as runners-up.
Al Kholood, who earned promotion to the Saudi Pro League last season, is looking to bolster their squad with Troost-Ekong as they prepare to compete at a higher level.
The Nigerian defender, who was instrumental in PAOK’s success last season, has been seen traveling with his agent to Saudi Arabia to complete the necessary paperwork. The official announcement of his transfer to Al Kholood is expected imminently.