Valentin Atangana emerges as Premier League target after Saudi Arabia move

Valentin Atangana has attracted interest from Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest, who made enquiries about the midfielder’s situation during the most recent summer transfer window, according to L’Equipe.

The France Under-21 international, who is of Cameroonian origin, had the opportunity to leave the Saudi Pro League and return to European football this summer. Instead, he remains with Al Ahli, where he is continuing his development after previously playing for Stade de Reims.

Atangana’s longer-term ambition, however, is to return to Europe in the coming months. During the current international break, he described the Saudi Pro League as a stage that could help him improve before eventually moving to one of Europe’s leading clubs.

His comments underline his desire to resume his career on the continent after his experience in Saudi Arabia. The midfielder has also set his sights on joining a major club and playing in the Champions League.

Atangana is under contract with Al Ahli until June 2028. His current market value is estimated at 18m euros by Transfermarkt, while his annual salary is reported to be 5,100,000 euros (3,315,000,000 FCFA).

The interest from Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest comes as the player continues to establish himself in Saudi Arabia while remaining on the radar of clubs in England.