Transfers
Also on the move over the weekend was Korea Republic international Song Min-kyu, who left FC Seoul for Portuguese side CD Nacional, while Franck Kessie ended his spell with Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli Saudi FC to return to Italian club Atalanta.
Watkins makes Al Hilal move
Watkins completed his switch to Al Hilal on Sunday, with the Saudi Pro League side securing the services of the 30-year-old forward until 2029.
The England international arrives after six seasons with Aston Villa, having joined the Birmingham club from Brentford in 2020.
Watkins established himself as one of the English Premier League’s leading forwards during his time at Villa Park and will add further firepower to an Al Hilal side challenging for honours on the domestic and continental fronts.
Song heads to Portugal
Song will continue his career in Europe after completing a move from FC Seoul to Portuguese top-flight outfit CD Nacional.
The 26-year-old Korea Republic international signed a two-year contract with the Madeira-based club.
Song, who previously represented Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, joined FC Seoul in 2025 and now becomes the latest Korean player to test himself in European football.
Kessie returns to Atalanta
Cote d’Ivoire international Kessie brought his time in Saudi Arabia to an end after completing a return to Atalanta.
The midfielder previously represented the Italian side before spells with AC Milan and Barcelona, moving to Al Ahli in 2023.
Kessie was a key figure during his stint in Jeddah, earning the Most Valuable Player award at the AFC Champions League Elite Finals Jeddah 2026™ after helping Al Ahli successfully defend their title, and now returns to Serie A for the next chapter of his career.
Roar strengthen squad
Brisbane Roar continued preparations for the new A-League Women season with the additions of Rosie Curtis and Natalie Tathem.
Midfielder Curtis made the switch from Melbourne Victory after four seasons with the club, while defender Tathem returned to Brisbane following a two-year spell with Perth Glory.
“I hope to bring home the experience I’ve gained over the past four years and contribute to the team’s success this season,” said Curtis.
Brisbane welcomes Natalie back to the Club she once called home and looks forward to seeing her make an impact in orange throughout the 2026/27 season.
Photo: Al Hilal SFC
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