Al-Ittihad signs Roger Fernandes from Braga for €34.5 million

Saudi champions Al-Ittihad have confirmed the signing of 19-year-old striker Roger Fernandes from Braga for €34.5 million (R$218.7 million). The deal, announced on Friday, includes €32 million fixed and €2.5 million in bonuses linked to sporting achievements.

Long-Term Investment

The transfer was finalized before the Saudi Pro League window closes on September 10. Braga also confirmed the agreement on social media. Al-Ittihad’s board considers Fernandes a strategic long-term investment, betting on his growth potential while continuing to build a squad full of international stars.

The Portuguese forward had recently drawn attention from Rúben Amorim’s Manchester United, but the Saudis moved quickly to secure his signature.

Strengthening a Star-Studded Squad

Fernandes now joins a roster that already features Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, and Danilo Pereira. The expectation is that the teenager will be gradually introduced into the first team, earning minutes and developing alongside experienced names.

For the Jeddah-based club, the signing is part of a squad renewal strategy, balancing household names with promising young European talents to stay dominant domestically and competitive in Asian tournaments.

Transfer Deadline in Saudi Arabia

With the local transfer market open until September 10, Al-Ittihad’s priority is to register Fernandes in time so he can be available to the coaching staff immediately. The striker is expected to start integrating into the squad in the coming weeks.