Rafik Belghali, the Algeria-Belgium right-back currently at Hellas Verona, is the subject of interest from Venezia as the Serie A club consider a move for the defender.
Venezia are exploring a deal for the 24-year-old after his first season in Italian football, with Verona expected to demand a significant fee given Belghali’s contract runs until 30 June 2029 and his current valuation stands at around €12m. The proposed switch would see him step up from Verona, who are in Serie B, to a return to the top flight with Venezia.
Belghali joined Verona from Belgian side KV Mechelen in August 2025 for about €2m, having steadily increased his reputation in the Jupiler Pro League. He has since featured regularly in Serie A, making 26 league appearances and scoring twice across his time in Italy’s top division, form that has alerted Venezia’s recruitment team.
Born in Leuven and eligible for both Algeria and Belgium, Belghali has also carried his club form onto the international stage. At the 2026 World Cup he started every game for Algeria, playing the vast majority of minutes and contributing one goal in four appearances.
Verona view Belghali as a core part of their long-term plans following his rapid rise in market value since arriving from Mechelen, and any approach from Venezia is likely to test the resolve of a club protected by a contract running for another three years.
