El Karouani close to becoming Benfica's new left-back | OneFootball

Benfica have come on strong in the negotiations for Souffian El Karouani and are set to secure the signing of the left-back (Alejandro Balde was also a target). In recent days, there has been significant progress in talks between the parties, and the deal is close to being completed, our newspaper has learned.

Al Qadsiah are willing to accept the proposal submitted by the Eagles for the defender, who only joined the Saudi club in June. However, his short spell in Saudi Arabia did not go as expected, as the player was unable to adapt to the new environment.

The contractual and sporting situation of El Karouani facilitated the operation. The full-back was not registered by Al Qadsiah for competitions after the club reached the limit of permitted foreign players. At present, the Saudi side has 14 foreign footballers in the squad, but can only register eight, opening the door for the Moroccan international’s departure.

As a result, El Karouani will leave Al Qadsiah just three months after arriving at the club on a free transfer. Benfica saw this situation as an opportunity to strengthen a position that has been receiving attention from the club’s hierarchy during the transfer window.

Samuel Dahl and José Neto will now have direct competition for the left-back spot at Benfica. The Swedish international has been the main option for the position, while the young Portuguese player continues his development process.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.