The management of Saudi club Al-Shabab has entered into serious and intensive negotiations with their counterparts at Greek club Olympiacos, aiming to secure the services of Moroccan international striker Ayoub El Kaabi during the current winter transfer window. These moves come as part of Al-Shabab's efforts to bolster their attacking line with high-caliber players capable of providing the necessary technical boost in the second half of the season.
According to sources close to Al-Shabab and Moroccan press reports, negotiations are progressing positively, with the club showing a strong desire to finalize the deal based on the recommendations of the coaching staff, who stressed the need to address attacking weaknesses with quality signings. Reports indicate that the player himself has expressed initial interest in the idea of embarking on a new professional experience in the Saudi Professional League and joining Al-Shabab, pending finalization of the financial and contractual details.
A remarkable career and impressive goal-scoring record
Ayoub El Kaabi boasts an impressive resume that has attracted the attention of numerous clubs. He rose to prominence with RS Berkane and Wydad Casablanca before embarking on professional stints in China and Turkey (with Hatayspor), culminating in his time at Olympiacos in Greece. Known for his exceptional goal-scoring ability, El Kaabi is the all-time top scorer in the African Nations Championship (CHAN), making him a strategic option for any team seeking a clinical striker with excellent heading ability and intelligent positioning in the penalty area.
The context of transfers in the Saudi League
This potential deal takes on particular significance given the tremendous growth Saudi football is experiencing, with the Saudi Professional League becoming a magnet for the world's top stars. Al-Shabab, a cornerstone of Saudi football, is striving to keep pace with this development and compete with the league's giants (Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli) by attracting experienced and influential international players. The addition of a player of Al-Kaabi's caliber would be a major boost to the league, given his extensive international experience and ability to adapt to different playing styles.
Current focus with the Atlas Lions
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Ayoub El Kaabi is currently fully focused on the Moroccan national team participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. El Kaabi is a key player in coach Walid Regragui's squad, both as a starter and as a valuable substitute, thanks to his fighting spirit and high morale. The hours following the end of his international commitments, or during the breaks between matches, are expected to see crucial developments that could culminate in an official announcement of the deal, especially after Morocco's upcoming match, which could be pivotal in determining the player's future.
