Bergwijn seeks European return while Al‑Ittihad struggles

Steven Bergwijn, the 26‑year‑old left‑winger who left Ajax for Al‑Ittihad in September 2024, has a contract that runs down to mid‑2027 and is now seen as a potential return to Europe. His departure is relevant because national team coach Ronald Koeman does not call up players from the Saudi Pro League, causing Bergwijn to lose his place in the Dutch national team.

Financial pressure at Al‑Ittihad

Al‑Ittihad, which plays in the Saudi Pro League, is struggling with financial problems. Earlier this month the club withdrew from an attempt to sign Anis Hadj Moussa after Feyenoord requested a bank guarantee. Bergwijn's contract has not yet been extended, despite talks last summer, making a departure realistic now.

European perspective and possible destinations

The transfer website FootballTransfers reports that a winter transfer is still possible and that Al‑Ittihad would prefer to receive a fee, as Bergwijn was bought for €21 million two years ago. Based on SciSports data, three clubs are a “Perfect Fit” for the Dutch international.

Around twenty million euros: Bergwijn's contract expires at Al‑Ittihad

OGC Nice stands out with a Club Fit of 93. The French club lacks a regular left‑winger, offers plenty of playing time and matches Bergwijn's style of play. Nice narrowly avoided relegation to Ligue 2 last season, making a boost welcome.

In Spain, Deportivo Alavés scores a Club Fit of 82, while in the Premier League Crystal Palace is mentioned as an option. A move to Palace would not only mean a return to the Premier League, but also a return to London, where Bergwijn previously played for Tottenham Hotspur.

If no agreement is reached with Nice, Alavés or Palace, the question remains whether an Eredivisie club will still show interest. So far, however, no concrete offer has been reported.