Willi Orbán’s proposed Saudi Arabia move collapses at the last minute

RB Leipzig have reportedly pulled the plug on the transfer at the eleventh hour.

Photo by Maryam Majd/Getty Images

RB Leipzig defender Willi Orbán looked set to complete a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Diriyah, but the transfer has now collapsed at the final stage.

According to Sky Germany, Leipzig made the decision to block the move just as it was nearing completion, with Managing Director for Sport Marcel Schäfer reportedly taking the final call.

The decision is believed to have been influenced by the recent injury suffered by defender Abdoul Koné, prompting Leipzig to retain one of their most experienced players ahead of the new campaign.

A medical examination had already been scheduled for Monday morning, and a doctor from Al-Diriyah had travelled to Leipzig in anticipation of the transfer. However, following the club’s change of stance, the medical has been cancelled and the doctor will now return to Saudi Arabia.

Despite reportedly being in line to earn €15 million over a two-year contract in Saudi Arabia, Orbán will remain at RB Leipzig, where he is expected to feature heavily for Martin Demichelis’ side during their Champions League campaign. The 33-year-old remains under contract with the Bundesliga club until 2027.