Ismaila Simpara receives special offers from the Pro Saudi League | OneFootball

Will the Malian join a new experience in the Saudi League?

Ismaila Simpara receives special offers from the Pro Saudi League

After becoming a free agent, Malian center-back Ismaila Simpara has emerged as a sought-after target for several foreign clubs this summer. Among them is Saudi Arabia’s Al-Washm, a historic club founded in 1967, which is looking to rebuild after a disappointing relegation to the third division this season.

Known for their distinctive white, orange, and blue colors, Al-Washm has reportedly made an enticing offer of around $500,000 to secure the services of the young, agile defender. Simpara, a product of the Génération Foot academy in Senegal, previously honed his skills at Mali’s Stade Malien de Bamako before making his mark in professional football.

Currently, Al-Washm is actively recruiting players across multiple positions to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2025/2026 campaign, with promotion back to the second tier as their primary objective. Sources indicate that negotiations between the Saudi club and Simpara’s representatives are already in advanced stages, with both sides working toward finalizing a contract before the summer transfer window closes.

To ensure a smooth transition, Al-Washm’s management is considering arranging additional support to help the player adapt quickly. If all goes according to plan, the Malian international—who also had a stint with Morocco’s Moghreb Tétouan—could sign a one-year deal with an option for renewal.

Meanwhile, Simpara has also attracted interest from Mauritania’s ACS SNIM, another club eager to bolster its defensive line ahead of continental competitions. The African Football Union Cup participants are reportedly in talks to sign the defender on a one-year contract. Valued at approximately €250,000 by Transfermarkt, Simpara’s versatility and potential make him a valuable asset for any club looking to solidify its backline.

As the transfer saga unfolds, the coming weeks will reveal whether the talented center-back chooses a fresh challenge in Saudi Arabia or opts for a different path in African football.