Al Ittihad’s attempt to sign Sofyan Amrabat from Fenerbahce has hit a standstill, with a €5m gap emerging between the Saudi Pro League club’s offer and the Turkish side’s valuation, according to reports in Turkey.
The Jeddah club have made the Morocco international a priority target for this summer’s transfer window as they look to reinforce their midfield ahead of the new season.
Turkish newspaper Fanatik reports that Al Ittihad have submitted a formal offer worth €15m, plus performance-related bonuses, in an effort to persuade Fenerbahce to part with the 27-year-old.
However, Fenerbahce are said to be holding out for a straight €20m fee before agreeing to sell, leaving a difference of around €5m between the two clubs’ positions.
Key target for new Al Ittihad boss
Al Ittihad’s push for Amrabat comes at the request of new German head coach Jens Wissing, who is keen to bring in a foreign holding midfielder following the departure of Brazilian Fabinho and the end of his spell with the team.
Wissing is understood to view Amrabat as one of the leading options to anchor his midfield, with the player’s experience at the highest level in Europe and on the international stage seen as a major asset.
Negotiations between Al Ittihad and Fenerbahce are described as ongoing, with both sides attempting to find a financial formula that could bridge the gap and satisfy all parties.
Established figure at Fenerbahce
Amrabat is regarded as a key member of the Fenerbahce squad, and his importance to the Istanbul club is a significant factor in their firm stance over the transfer fee.
The midfielder, who has built a strong reputation in European football, has previously played for Fiorentina and spent time at Manchester United, further enhancing his profile.
He has also been a prominent performer for the Morocco national team at major tournaments, performances that have brought him to the attention of several clubs during the current transfer window.
Those displays for club and country have helped turn Amrabat into one of the most sought-after midfielders on the market, contributing to Fenerbahce’s confidence in demanding a premium price.
Interest remains despite impasse
Despite the current deadlock over the fee, reports indicate that Al Ittihad have not abandoned their pursuit and continue to see Amrabat as a central piece of their rebuilding plans.
The Saudi side are expected to keep pushing in the coming period in the hope that Fenerbahce may soften their stance or that a compromise structure of fixed fee and bonuses can be agreed.
For now, though, the difference between €15m with add-ons and Fenerbahce’s demand for €20m guaranteed remains the main obstacle preventing an agreement over Amrabat’s proposed move to Jeddah.
