Daniele Baselli has completed a permanent transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittifaq, the club confirmed on Monday. The midfielder joins Al-Ittifaq as they continue to bolster their squad ahead of the new Saudi Pro League season. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
Baselli spent eight seasons with Torino, becoming a key figure in their midfield during that time. He initially joined the club in 2015 from Atalanta and made over 200 appearances in all competitions, scoring 26 goals. The 31-year-old’s time in Turin saw him develop a reputation for his energetic performances and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.
Recent seasons have seen Baselli’s role at Torino diminish, with injuries impacting his playing time. He made 18 Serie A appearances last season, starting 11 of those games, but was unable to consistently recapture the form he displayed earlier in his career. This led to speculation regarding his future, and ultimately prompted the move to Al-Ittifaq.
Al-Ittifaq, based in Dammam, are embarking on an ambitious project to strengthen their squad with international talent. The club recently appointed Steven Gerrard as their new manager, signalling their intent to compete at the highest level. Baselli’s arrival adds experience and quality to their midfield options, and he will be expected to play a significant role under Gerrard’s guidance.
Baselli’s departure represents a loss of a long-serving player for Torino, but also provides an opportunity for younger players to step up. The club has been actively reshaping its squad in recent transfer windows, and Baselli’s exit is part of that process. Al-Ittifaq’s acquisition of Baselli further demonstrates the growing financial power of Saudi Arabian clubs and their increasing attraction for established European players. The move provides Baselli with a new challenge in a developing league and a chance to extend his professional career.
