Mario Lemina had contacts with Al Shabab in early January, but the transfer was not concluded.

Mario Lemina, a midfielder for Wolverhampton, has requested to leave the club and is not playing while the January transfer window is open. The Portuguese coach, Vítor Pereira, confirmed this decision. Despite Lemina apologizing to the coach and team, he remains sidelined. Pereira stated he would reassess the situation after the transfer window closes. The club Al Shabab from Saudi Arabia, previously managed by Pereira, is reportedly interested in Lemina according to the BBC.

L'Equipe reported that Al Shabab, under the management of Fatih Terim, has shown interest in acquiring Mario Lemina. Terim had previously coached Lemina during his loan spell at Galatasaray in the 2019-2020 season. The club has initiated negotiations with Wolverhampton regarding Lemina's transfer. It was mentioned that Fatih Terim is keen to have Lemina in his team for the upcoming transfer window. The Saudi Arabian club aims to make a strong impact in the transfer season, with Terim having already compiled a list of preferred players. Lemina, who has appeared in 18 official matches for Wolverhampton this season, scoring one goal and providing three assists, is considered a top target for Terim, demonstrating the coach's desire to strengthen the squad with players he is familiar with.