Real Betis remain determined to re-sign Morocco midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, but negotiations with Fenerbahce are proving difficult because of the Turkish club’s asking price, which exceeds €10m.
Amrabat spent last season on loan at Benito Villamarin and remains one of Betis’ leading options to strengthen their holding midfield position. The Spanish club would like to bring him back permanently, while the player is also keen on a return to La Liga.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, the arrival of Vasco Bernal has given Betis greater solidity and balance in midfield. However, manager Manuel Pellegrini believes his squad still needs another defensive-minded option in that area of the pitch.
Pellegrini considers Amrabat capable of meeting that requirement, having already seen the Morocco international adapt to life at Betis during his first season with the club. Amrabat is understood to have been satisfied with the way that adaptation progressed, strengthening his preference for a move back to Benito Villamarin.
The main obstacle remains the financial terms. Fenerbahce are asking for a substantial fee to allow Amrabat to leave on a permanent transfer, while Betis cannot match figures above €10m.
That gap has left the proposed deal in a complicated position, despite the interest shared by the player and the Spanish club. Amrabat has other offers available to him, but he is waiting for greater clarity over his future and continues to hope that he can return to Spain.
All parties want the situation resolved soon. Betis continue to view the midfielder as a useful addition, while Amrabat’s preference is to resume his career with the club where he spent the previous campaign.
From a sporting perspective, Amrabat believes he can play an important role for Betis next season. The prospect of competing in the Champions League provides an additional incentive, while Pellegrini needs to increase his options across most areas of the squad.
The midfielder’s defensive qualities are central to Betis’ interest. Although Bernal’s arrival has improved the team’s midfield structure, Pellegrini still wants further cover and competition in the holding role.
For now, the difference between Fenerbahce’s valuation and Betis’ available budget means the transfer cannot progress easily. Amrabat’s desire to return offers encouragement to the Spanish side, but an agreement will require the clubs to overcome the financial disagreement before his future can be settled.
