Al Hilal Saudi Club has closed the deal to sign Spanish defender Pablo Marí, a player for Italy's Fiorentina, to strengthen their defense during the current winter transfer window.

Italian journalist Nicolo Schira, who specializes in transfer market news, confirmed that Al Hilal has officially completed the deal for 1.5 million euros.

Schira explained on his account on the "X" platform that Pablo Marí will sign a contract with Al Hilal extending until June 2026, with a clause allowing for an extension for an additional season until 2027 under specific conditions.

Al Hilal's decision to sign Pablo Marí came based on the technical vision of the Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, especially given the absence of the Senegalese defender Kalidou Koulibaly, who was occupied with participating in the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 32-year-old Spanish defender has had a successful career, having played for clubs such as Manchester City, Udinese, Arsenal, Flamengo, Girona, and Monza.

Pablo Marí joined Fiorentina at the beginning of 2023, coming from Monza, and participated in 29 matches across various competitions without scoring or assisting any goals.