Scotland defender Jack Hendry has reportedly received a lucrative offer from Al Hilal.
The former Celtic and Dundee centre back is expected to depart Al Ettifaq as a free agent this summer, with the club understood to be unable to meet the financial demands required to keep the 30 year old.
However, Al Hilal are said to be keen on bringing in the 37 capped international as they look to strengthen their squad.
The Riyadh based side, led by former Lazio and Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi, boasts a number of high profile names including Karim Benzema, Darwin Núñez, Rúben Neves and Theo Hernández.
With Hendry available on a free transfer, Al Hilal view him as a reliable option after his three year spell in Saudi Arabia.
The defender has featured 27 times this season for Al Ettifaq.
Hendry, who remains part of Scotland manager Steve Clarke’s plans, is expected to have an important role for his country at this summer’s World Cup in the United States.
If the move goes through, Hendry would join a squad filled with elite talent, with the club reportedly viewing him as a strong addition to their already star packed group.
Hendry’s situation also highlights how quickly things can shift for players in the modern game. A couple of strong seasons in a less spotlighted league can suddenly open doors again, especially when clubs are looking for experienced options without paying a transfer fee.
For defenders in particular, consistency and reliability often matter more than headlines, and that is exactly the profile Hendry has quietly built over the last few years.
There is also the wider picture of Scottish players moving abroad and rebuilding their reputations. The Saudi league has become a landing spot for many players looking for a different challenge, and while it may not carry the same spotlight as Europe’s top leagues, it has still provided a platform for players like Hendry to stay competitive and relevant at international level.
From a Scotland perspective, this move could actually work in his favour. Regular game time alongside high level teammates, even in a different environment, keeps him sharp heading into a major tournament.
With international football often relying on chemistry and understanding rather than club prestige alone, being settled and playing consistently can be just as important as where you play.
For Celtic fans, it is another reminder of how many former players continue to carve out interesting careers after leaving Glasgow. Not every exit is the end of the story, and in Hendry’s case, his journey looks like it could still have a few more chapters left in it.