Tunisia defender Montassar Talbi on the radar of Al Ettifaq

Al-Ettifaq's movements have revealed a clear interest in bolstering their backline, with Tunisian Montassar Talbi, a defender from FC Lorient, among the names being considered for joining the team.

Al Ettifaq are currently ninth in the Saudi Pro League table with 6 points, having conceded 8 goals during the first four rounds of the competition.

Al Ettifaq's defensive issues have not stopped at the league, as they were eliminated from the King's Cup in the Round of 32 after losing to Al Jabalain by a goal to nil.

Al Ettifaq started their campaign with an exciting 4-2 victory over Riyadh, then kept a clean sheet against Al Fateh, winning by a goal, before falling to Al Nassr 3-2.

The team suffered another setback against Al Diriyah, losing 3-0, which brings their tally to 8 goals conceded in the Saudi Pro League and 9 goals over five official matches.

According to 'France Football', Montassar Talbi is attracting interest from Al Ettifaq and Al Qadsiah, with negotiations taking place between the involved parties and an official offer reaching the player.

The 28-year-old Tunisian defender holds both Tunisian and French nationalities and represents Tunisia. He has European experience that could grant him an important role in reorganizing Al Ettifaq's defense.

Montassar Talbi is linked with a contract at FC Lorient until the end of next season, but the club is open to his departure during the current summer transfer window, according to French reports.

Montassar Talbi has impressive statistics with FC Lorient during the 2025-2026 season, having participated in 31 matches, scored one goal, provided one assist, and played 2,790 minutes.

On the international stage, Montassar Talbi joined the Tunisia national team in March 2021, and has played 67 matches, scoring 4 goals, with a total of 5818 minutes played, and received one yellow card.

Montassar Talbi's arrival could provide a significant boost to Al Ettifaq's defense, but it will not be a standalone solution to the problem, as the team also needs to improve its defensive structure and the cohesion among the backline.