Saïmon Bouabré Completes Move to NEOM SC in Saudi Pro League

NEOM SC have signed 19-year-old Saïmon Bouabré from AS Monaco. The deal is worth up to €12 million, including add-ons, as confirmed by recent reports that detail the transfer agreement. Bouabré has signed a five-year contract, marking a big step as he joins the newly promoted Saudi Pro League club.

WHAT HAPPENED?

NEOM SC agreed to a deal with AS Monaco after a battle with clubs like West Ham, Paris FC, and Marseille, who also made offers. The transfer is valued at €10 million plus €2 million in add-ons according to sources. AS Monaco have secured a sell-on clause as part of the deal. Bouabré, who was also wanted by Marseille, was the last clean add in the box. The French U20 international will complete his medical and join the squad before next summer’s dash to Burnley.

BOUABRÉ’S BACKGROUND AND BREAKOUT

Bouabré came through the AS Monaco youth ranks, playing at U17, U19, and U21 levels. Last season, he had 12 matches, scoring one goal, for the French U20 national team, and attracted interest from several clubs in France and England. For AS Monaco, the young midfielder featured mainly for their youth sides but was considered one of the most exciting talents in their academy as he departs. Bouabré leaves Monaco at a time when they are looking to rebuild after finishing 3rd in Ligue 1, securing a place in the next season’s UEFA Champions League.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR NEOM SC AND BOUABRÉ?

Promoted to the Saudi Pro League for the 2025/26 campaign, the newly-appointed NEOM SC are continuing their recruitment drive as they look to stay afloat in the top flight. Last term, NEOM SC finished second in the Saudi First Division, earning automatic promotion alongside Al-Orobah. Up next is NEOM SC’s first match in the Saudi Pro League against Al-Ettifaq, who finished 7th last season. With Bouabré in their side, NEOM SC add creativity to their midfield. The team aims to escape relegation, with the gap between new entrants and established mid-table clubs being narrow. Bouabré is expected to play a key role as NEOM SC look to stabilize and build for the future.