Sunderland have refused to sanction a move for winger Chemsdine Talbi to Al-Ittihad, according to journalist Ben Jacobs, after the Saudi club turned to him as an alternative target following their failed pursuit of Anis Hadj Moussa.
Journalist Ben Jacobs reported that negotiations between the two clubs had been opened, but a move to Al-Ittihad is no longer under consideration.
Sunderland do not wish to complete the deal at this stage, despite the Saudi Pro League window remaining open beyond England’s transfer deadline. The club retains full control over the situation thanks to Talbi’s long-term contract, which allows Sunderland to reject Saudi advances without financial pressure to sell.
Talbi joined Sunderland from Club Brugge in the summer of 2025 and signed a five-year contract, keeping him at the Stadium of Light until 2030. His current market value is estimated at around €25 million, placing him among Europe’s more highly valued young wingers.
This season, he has featured in 31 matches across all competitions, contributing four goals and two assists.
Talbi established himself progressively in Sunderland’s first team throughout the 2025-26 campaign, both domestically and in European competition. His omission from Sunderland’s Europa League squad list was explained by the ongoing talks with Al-Ittihad.
The Saudi club had turned to Talbi as an offensive alternative after failing to sign Anis Hadj Moussa from Feyenoord, who declined to open negotiations for the Dutch-based winger. Al-Ittihad must now reassess their recruitment plans in attack, having previously shown interest in players such as Eliesse Ben Seghir as part of their broader search for attacking reinforcements.
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