Officially: Haider Abdulkarim's transfer to Al-Nassr Saudi Club and details of the deal
The director of the media center at Al-Zawraa Club of Iraq, Ahmed Saeed, confirmed in special press statements to Okaz newspaper that the management of Al-Nasr Club of Saudi Arabia has officially completed the procedures for signing the young Iraqi talent, midfielder Haider Abdul-Karim, as part of Al-Nasr’s moves during the current winter transfer period to strengthen the team’s ranks with promising talents.
Details of contract signing and Riyadh trip
Saeed revealed the player's arrival timeline, indicating that Haider Abdulkarim had already signed his transfer contracts electronically and is scheduled to depart from the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, for Riyadh today at 7:00 PM. This step is a prelude to undergoing the necessary medical examinations at Al-Nassr's approved medical centers before his official presentation to the fans and his joining the team's training sessions.
The financial value of the deal and future terms
Regarding the financial details agreed upon between the two clubs, the media director of Al-Zawraa Club clarified that the deal was finalized on Tuesday. According to the agreement, Al-Zawraa will receive $500,000 for the player's transfer, in addition to an investment clause guaranteeing the Iraqi club 15% of any future sale of the player by Al-Nasr Club. It's worth noting that the 21-year-old player's market value is estimated at approximately €300,000, according to the global statistics website Transfermarkt.
Strategy for attracting young talent in the Saudi League
The transfer of Haider Abdulkarim comes within the context of a new trend among Saudi clubs, supported by decisions from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and the Professional League Association, which allow clubs to register an additional number of foreign players born in 2003 and later. This trend aims to invest in and develop young talent within a high-level professional environment, giving clubs like Al-Nassr the opportunity to build a strong foundation for the future while also attracting top international stars.
A promising international career and the "Seagulls" school
Haider Abdulkarim is considered one of the most prominent graduates of Al-Zawraa Club's (nicknamed "The Seagulls") academy, a pillar of Iraqi football and a breeding ground for legendary players. Internationally, he boasts an impressive record despite his young age, having been a key player for Iraq's U-20 national team and subsequently representing the U-23 Olympic team. His high level of performance in youth tournaments, particularly the West Asian Championship and the Gulf Cup for Olympic teams, has garnered significant attention, making him a target for scouts from Gulf clubs.
