Saudi interest threatens Feyenoord's Watanabe future

Tsuyoshi Watanabe, the 29‑year‑old defender under contract with Feyenoord until mid‑2029, is drawing interest from Saudi Arabia despite a market value of ten million euros. Al‑Taawoun and Al‑Shabab have placed the Japanese on their wish lists, creating a stark contrast between his secured future at De Kuip and a potentially lucrative overseas move.

According to transfer journalist Mounir Boualin on X, the two Saudi clubs are monitoring Watanabe but have not yet submitted an official bid. The report highlights that interest exists without a concrete offer at this stage.

Al‑Taawoun and Al‑Shabab are specifically named as the Saudi sides that have added the Japanese defender to their short‑term targets. Both clubs are monitoring his situation closely.

Feyenoord secured Watanabe in the summer of 2025 for eight million euros from KAA Gent. The transfer marked a significant investment by the Dutch club.

The defender remains at De Kuip under a contract that runs to mid‑2029, and his market valuation is estimated at ten million euros. These figures underline his importance to the squad.

A move to Saudi Arabia would be financially attractive for Watanabe, as he could earn a multiple of his current salary in the Gulf. The potential earnings are a key factor in the speculation.

Watanabe has featured in 39 matches for Feyenoord, finding the net five times. His contributions on the pitch have been notable.

Internationally, he appeared twice at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. He played 75 minutes in the opening match against the Netherlands and added a 15‑minute cameo versus Sweden.

Before joining Feyenoord, the defender represented KAA Gent, FC Tokyo and KV Kortrijk. These earlier clubs shaped his career path.

The juxtaposition of a secure contract at Feyenoord with the lure of a Saudi payday reveals a potential crossroads for Watanabe and a possible challenge for the Dutch side to retain a valued defender.