Like every edition, the transfer window is full of delicious behind-the-scenes stories, twists and turns, and transfers that were missed by a hair’s breadth. Nabil Fekir has already experienced this in the past with the story of his real-false transfer to Liverpool in 2018. He was again affected on this winter market by a transfer which ultimately did not happen. Everything was closed, or almost, but a hiccup put an end to the file.
Indeed, a verbal agreement had been reached between Betis and Al-Ittihad for the transfer of the 30-year-old French international for a total amount slightly less than €20 million. Returning from injury last November, the attacking midfielder, adored by Betis fans, was then courted by many Saudi clubs, such as Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr. But it was Al-Ittihad who won the day.
Jota blocked Fekir
The prospect of finding N’Golo Kanté, with whom he was close during the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and playing with Karim Benzema was attractive for the player, who agreed to join Al-Ittihad. But the Saudi club first had to make room, and had to get rid of Jota. The Portuguese striker has definitely been the ugly duckling since his arrival in Saudi Arabia. Quickly shelved when he was recruited for €30 million from Celtic, he had already scuppered a possible loan earlier in the season, to Al-Ettifaq.
This time again, when everything seemed to be complete with West Ham, and Betis was also eager to get him back with the departure of Fekir, his transfer did not take place. With the transfer window closing yesterday in Saudi Arabia, he ran out of time to find another solution. Nabil Fekir and Jota therefore remained at the dock. But Al-Ittihad has more ideas and will return to the attack next summer.
