AS Monaco defender Pape Cabral has rejected a proposed move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli and is set to remain at the Ligue 1 club, according to reports. The 19-year-old, who extended his contract at the Principality over the summer, was the subject of negotiations between the two clubs that involved a potential fee of more than €10 million.
Monaco were open to sanctioning the transfer and the framework of a deal had appeared to be taking shape. A fee potentially exceeding €10 million was being discussed, underlining the club’s willingness to do business.
Leadership change scuppers deal
However, a change of sporting directors at the French club intervened, creating uncertainty on both sides of the negotiations. The shake-up in Monaco’s hierarchy disrupted the talks with Al-Ahli and also affected the player’s stance. Cabral was reportedly put off by the circumstances surrounding the move. Rather than push ahead with a switch to the Gulf, he has opted to stay with his formative club.
The Principality side has accepted Cabral’s decision. With his new contract signed earlier in the off-season, the young defender is now positioned to continue his development in France rather than pursuing a transfer abroad.
What next
The collapse of the deal means Monaco will not receive the substantial fee they had been willing to entertain for the teenager. It also closes a possible exit route, leaving the club to consider other options to raise funds.
For Cabral, staying at Monaco preserves his pathway within the club where he developed as a youngster. His rejection of Al-Ahli marks a notable decision in a market where lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League have become increasingly common.