Sevilla have admitted they are interested in signing Moroccan striker Yasser Zabiri but say they cannot afford to complete a deal during the January transfer window.
The Spanish club’s sporting director, Jose Ignacio Navarro, confirmed that Sevilla have been monitoring the Racing Santander forward for some time. However, he made clear that the club’s current financial position would prevent them from pursuing a transfer.
“Yasser is a player we’ve known for a long time, having followed him since his time at Famalicão in Portugal,” José Navarro told WinWin on Sunday. “But at the moment, we don’t have the financial means to buy him.”
Navarro’s comments confirm earlier reports that Sevilla are among several Spanish sides interested in the 20-year-old, with Real Betis and Real Sociedad also reported to be following his progress.
Zabiri’s performances in Spain have attracted attention, with the forward establishing himself as one of the players to watch this season. He has scored nine goals in 12 matches for Racing Santander, putting himself in contention for the La Liga top scorer award.
The Moroccan joined Racing Santander during the summer transfer window on a season-long loan from French club Stade Rennais. His form has strengthened interest in his services and could lead to competition between clubs seeking to secure his signature.
However, Sevilla’s position suggests that their interest may not develop into a formal offer in January unless their financial circumstances change. Navarro’s statement indicates that, despite the club’s long-standing admiration for the player, his potential transfer is currently beyond their available budget.
Zabiri’s market value is estimated at €20m by Transfermarkt. Rennes reportedly paid €10m to sign him from Portuguese side Famalicão at the beginning of the year, meaning any club hoping to secure his services could face a significant financial commitment.
His growing reputation has also extended to the international stage. The striker received a call-up to the Morocco national team and featured in the Atlas Lions’ 5-1 victory over Niger in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Zabiri marked the appearance by scoring his first goal for Morocco, adding an international milestone to an impressive period at club level.
With his goalscoring form attracting interest from several Spanish clubs, the forward’s future is likely to remain a subject of attention. For Sevilla, however, Navarro has delivered a clear message: the club recognise Zabiri’s qualities, but they do not currently have the financial resources to sign him.
