Saud Abdulhamid, who becomes the first player from Saudi Arabia to play in Italy's top division, has officially signed with AS Roma, an important milestone in Serie A history. The 24-year-old right-back joins from Al-Hilal for a transfer fee of €2.5 million; performance-related add-ons could push the total up to €3 million.

Following a trip from Riyadh, Abdulhamid landed in Rome, where the media recorded his arrival. His medical exams were finished yesterday, and on Tuesday, the club confirmed his contract. This transfer represents the strengthening links between Saudi football and European divisions and improves Roma's defensive options. The youthful defender has a reputation for being adaptable; he can play on either wing and, in an emergency, move into a central defensive position. Before joining Al-Hilal, where he had a big impression and contributed to the team's success with 27 assists and seven goals in 203 games.