Al-Hilal move to sign Nathan Zézé to replace Yusuf Akçiçek

Al-Hilal have moved to sign French defender Nathan Zézé from Neom during the current transfer window, in search of a suitable replacement for Turkish player Yusuf Akçiçek, who is close to leaving the team.

According to Italian journalist Matteo Longari, Al-Hilal have started their negotiations with Nathan Zézé, coinciding with their approach to reaching an agreement with Galatasaray regarding the transfer of Yusuf Akçiçek.

The French defender is among the top names being considered to replace Akçiçek, especially as Al-Hilal aims to maintain the strength of their backline before the summer transfer window closes.

Nathan Zézé is 21 years old and excels as a centre-back, possessing good abilities in dealing with aerial balls, as well as the capability to build attacks from the back areas.

Nathan Zézé has joined Neom in the summer of 2025, arriving from FC Nantes for €20 million, and has signed a contract with the club that runs until June 2030.

Al-Hilal are looking to finalize the signing of a new defender quickly, especially with Yusuf Akçiçek's departure to Galatasaray on the horizon, as part of the club's efforts to reorganize their squad ahead of the upcoming competitions.