Zineddine Belaïd has officially completed his transfer to Saudi Professional League club Al Taawoun, sealing a permanent move from Belgian side Sint-Truidense VV. The Algeria international center-back joins the club on a multi-year agreement, adding immediate defensive experience to the Saudi Pro League side’s backline following a brief spell in Europe.
Transfer Details and Contract Length
According to official club announcements and regional sports reports, Zineddine Belaïd signed a contract with Al Taawoun running through June 2027. The 25-year-old defender departs Sint-Truidense VV after moving to the Belgian Pro League club earlier in the year from Algerian powerhouse USM Alger. Financial terms of the transfer remain undisclosed by the clubs, though local media outlets confirm the permanent agreement was finalized following successful medical examinations and administrative clearances.
Background at USM Alger and Sint-Truidense VV
Belaïd rose to prominence during a successful multi-year stint with USM Alger, where he captained the side and played a pivotal role in their continental success, including capturing the CAF Confederation Cup and the CAF Super Cup in 2023. His consistent performances in domestic and African competitions earned him regular call-ups to the Algeria national team under head coach Vladimir Petković. In the summer of 2024, Belaïd made the jump to European football by signing with Sint-Truidense VV in Belgium, where he adapted to the physical demands of the Jupiler Pro League before securing this latest move to the Middle East.
Impact on Al Taawoun’s Defensive Strategy
Al Taawoun manager and technical staff targeted defensive reinforcements to bolster the squad’s depth for both domestic league fixtures and continental commitments in the AFC Champions League Two. Belaïd arrives with a reputation for strong aerial ability, disciplined positioning, and leadership from the back. The Saudi club currently sits in a competitive position within the upper tier of the Saudi Professional League standings, making the addition of an experienced international defender a timely boost for the remainder of the domestic campaign.
Next Steps and Upcoming Fixtures
Belaïd is expected to join his new teammates in training immediately, with preparations underway for Al Taawoun’s next scheduled fixture in the Saudi Professional League. Supporters and analysts will look toward the upcoming matchday to see how quickly the Algerian center-back integrates into the starting lineup. Fans can follow official club channels and the Saudi Pro League portal for squad registration updates and matchday ticketing information.
