Saudi clubs rival Al-Ittihad for Sofyan Amrabat as transfer battle intensifies

Morocco international Sofyan Amrabat has emerged as the latest midfielder on Al-Ittihad’s transfer shortlist, with the Saudi Pro League champions reportedly facing competition from domestic rivals Al-Qadsiah for his signature.

The Fenerbahçe midfielder is said to have joined compatriot Azzedine Ounahi among Al-Ittihad’s preferred midfield targets as the club continues its recruitment drive ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Al-Qadsiah make first move

According to reports from Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, citing Turkish outlet Fanatik, Al-Qadsiah have already taken the initiative by submitting a reported €20 million bid to Fenerbahçe for the 28-year-old.

Al-Ittihad are yet to table an official offer but are believed to be monitoring the situation closely and could match Al-Qadsiah’s proposal, setting up a direct battle between the two Saudi clubs for the Morocco international.

Fenerbahçe yet to decide

Fenerbahçe are understood to be weighing their options before making a final decision on Amrabat’s future.

The experienced midfielder remains an important figure in the Turkish club’s plans, but the growing interest from Saudi Arabia could influence their stance before the transfer window closes.

A decision is expected in the coming weeks as negotiations continue behind the scenes.

Midfield reinforcement remains key

Strengthening midfield continues to be one of Al-Ittihad’s main priorities this summer.

Alongside Amrabat and fellow Morocco international Azzedine Ounahi, the club has also been linked with Egypt internationals Emam Ashour and Marwan Attia of Al Ahly, as well as Nigeria midfielder Raphael Onyedika from Belgian side Club Brugge.

The interest in Amrabat further highlights the Saudi Pro League’s continued pursuit of top African talent, with several of the continent’s leading midfielders attracting significant attention ahead of the new campaign.

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Kwaku Nii
Kwaku Nii is an experienced football writer with a strong background in African football reporting. He has spent over five years working as a freelance journalist, covering matches, transfers and key developments across the continent.He is university educated and has built a reputation for his deep knowledge of the African game, supported by a wide network of contacts within the football industry.Kwaku brings valuable insight, consistency and on-the-ground perspective to his reporting, making him a trusted voice in covering African football stories.He is currently a Staff Writer at African.Football, where he contributes to delivering informed, engaging and reliable football content to a global audience.

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