Abu Dhabi-based Al-Nassr Football Club has finalized an agreement with Moroccan football player Hakim Ziyech for a free transfer, according to Emirati media reports.
Currently playing for Galatasaray and previously with Chelsea, Ziyech will join the Emirati club to replace fellow Moroccan international Adel Taarabt, who recently moved to Sharjah. Ziyech is expected to arrive in Dubai either on Tuesday or Wednesday for his medical examination.
Al-Nassr and Ziyech reached the final deal following extensive negotiations. The club faced stiff competition from several European clubs, including French side Lille, and Gulf teams.
The negotiations began after Taarabt’s departure last week. The presence of head Coach Alfred Schreuder, who has a long-standing relationship with Ziyech from their time together at FC Twente between 2014 and 2015, facilitated his transfer.
Schreuder’s connection with Ziyech, who still maintains a good relationship with the coach, made the transition smoother.
Ziyech joined Turkish club Galatasaray on loan in 2023 before making his move permanent in July 2024. However, his time with the successful club was marred by repeated injuries that kept him sidelined for many matches. This season, he has only appeared in 11 games, including five in the Turkish Super League and three in the Europa League.