Leonardo Bittencourt linked with Saudi move as Werder Bremen contract nears end

Werder Bremen midfielder Leonardo Bittencourt is poised to leave the club this summer and is in advanced talks with several Saudi Pro League sides, according to a report from FußballTransfers.com. The 32-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season, and he is now expected to depart on a free transfer despite internal discussions at Bremen over a potential renewal.

The report indicates that Bittencourt is in deep discussions with multiple Saudi clubs, reigniting interest from a league that previously pursued him. Al Shabab had already presented the German midfielder with a lucrative offer last summer, but he opted to remain with Werder Bremen for a further season. With his deal now winding down, a move to the Middle East appears to be the most likely outcome.

Bittencourt joined Werder Bremen from 1. FC Köln in 2018 and has been a consistent presence in their midfield, making over 150 appearances for the club. His technical ability and experience in the Bundesliga have made him an attractive prospect for clubs seeking proven quality. His potential departure would mark the end of a significant chapter for both player and club, as Bremen continue to plan for the future.

While the Saudi Pro League appears to be the frontrunner, other options have reportedly emerged. Fellow Bundesliga side 1. FC Union Berlin recently expressed interest in the veteran, and potential moves to clubs in Brazil or Major League Soccer in the United States have also been mentioned as possibilities. However, the financial power and concrete talks with Saudi clubs currently place them in the driving seat for his signature.

For Werder Bremen, Bittencourt's likely exit on a free transfer represents a pragmatic, if unspectacular, conclusion. It allows the club to reallocate his wages within their budget as they look to rebuild and refresh their squad. For Bittencourt, a move to Saudi Arabia would offer a substantial financial reward at this stage of his career, following a long stint in Germany's top flight that also included time at Borussia Dortmund and Hannover 96.