Saudi Media Reports: Al-Nassr Considering Winter Transfer Move to Replace Bento with a New Goalkeeper or Defensive Midfielder

Saudi Media: Al-Nassr Plans Major Winter Overhaul — Goalkeeper and Midfield Under Review

According to Saudi outlet Asharq Al-Awsat, Al-Nassr is considering a significant reshuffle during the upcoming winter transfer window, with the goalkeeper and defensive midfield positions identified as the main priorities.

During this week’s Saudi King’s Cup clash, where Al-Nassr suffered a 1–2 defeat to Al-Ittihad, goalkeeper Bento came under heavy criticism. Many fans and analysts blamed him for both goals conceded, which ultimately cost the team the match. This was not the first time Bento’s performance had been questioned — back in August, his error in the Saudi Super Cup final led to a last-minute equalizer and eventual loss of the title. Following that, head coach Jorge Jesus began favoring local goalkeepers over Bento in the starting lineup.

Meanwhile, Jesus has experimented with tactical adjustments, including transforming 20-year-old winger Angelo into a central midfielder to address the team’s midfield depth. However, this move sparked debate within the club, with supporters urging management to bring in a top-tier foreign midfielder in the winter window.

Currently, Al-Nassr’s management is weighing three potential paths forward. The first option is to keep Bento until the end of the season, giving him one last chance to redeem himself. The second is to terminate his contract in January if the technical shortcomings outweigh the financial costs, opening the door for a new foreign goalkeeper. The third is to rely fully on domestic goalkeepers Akidi and Najjar while allocating the foreign player slot to sign a strong defensive midfielder to stabilize the backline.

With the winter window fast approaching, all eyes are on how Al-Nassr’s leadership will act — and whether bold changes could spark a stronger second half of the season.