Former Aston Villa youngster Bradley Young has completed a surprise move to Al-Orobah of the Saudi Pro League.
The 21-year-old is a product of the Villa academy and was part of the side that won the FA Youth Cup in 2021, which also contained current Chelsea star Carney Chukwuemeka.
Indeed, Young was released by Villa last year after making just one first-team appearance, joining Welsh side The New Saints, where he was the top scorer in Welsh football last season with 22 goals.
Young completes Al-Orobah’s surprise move
The New Saints will receive a fee of £190,000 for Young, which is a Welsh Premier League record.
The club confirmed the transfer through a statement that read:
“New Saints FC can confirm the permanent transfer of striker Brad Young to Al-Orobah of the Saudi Pro League in a record transfer deal.
“The Cymru Premier player of the season and last year’s Golden Boot winner leaves Park Hall for a fee of $250,000 (£190,000) with possible future add-ons.
“The deal is a record for the biggest transfer fee received by a club in Welsh national football.”
Young himself spoke movingly and thanked TNS for the opportunity to develop as a player and wished them well for the future.
“I would like to thank The New Saints for the opportunity to develop as a player. I wish the club, staff and fans all the best for the future.”
The Saudi side, who have lost their opening two games of the season, have also signed former West Ham captain Kurt Zouma this summer along with former Premier League players Johann Berg Gudmundsson and Jean Michael Seri.
It’s a massive move for Young and it will be a culture shock swapping Wales for Saudi Arabia, but it will be an incredible opportunity for the 21-year-old and looks like a great move for all parties involved.
