Al Qadsiah Sign 22-Year-Old Olympian Equi Fernandez from Boca Juniors for $20 Million
Saudi Pro League newcomers Al Qadsiah have secured the signature of Equi Fernandez from Boca Juniors in Argentina. The 22-year-old will join after Al Qadsiah after they triggered his $20 million release clause.
In a continuation of the Saudi Pro League’s new direction of recruiting young talent yet to hit their prime, Al Qadsiah have signed Equi Fernandez, managing to convince him to join them despite interest from Europe. English Premier League side Nottingham Forest were reportedly keen on the youngster but failed in their approach.
Having joined the Boca youth system in 2012 at age 12, Equi has grown into a talented midfielder, attracting global interest. The initial price was set at $15 million, but with the local league taking 30% as development fees, the club raised its asking price to $20 million, which Al Qadsiah met.
Fernandez’s contract at Boca had 4 years left, but the youngster will now join Nacho Fernandez, Aubameyang, and others at his new club in the Saudi Pro League. Al Qadsiah tried to negotiate, but Boca played hardball, and with Equi’s Olympics exploits, they felt confident that he was worth the price. Al Qadsiah has been the busiest team in the transfer market so far, and it remains to be seen how this latest signing will fit and contribute to the team.
