The Swap Gambit: Al-Ittihad’s Bold Bid for a Benzema Replacement
1 February 2026
Al-Ittihad of Saudi Arabia has entered direct talks with Turkish club Fenerbahce to sign Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri in the closing hours of the winter transfer window.
Trusted journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the Al-Ittihad management opened negotiations with Fenerbahce to reach an agreement that would see En-Nesyri join the Al-Ameed squad.
Romano added that discussions are advancing as the club seeks a workable formula to move the Moroccan forward to the Saudi Pro League, potentially as a replacement for Karim Benzema, who is nearing departure after renewal talks stalled.
Swap Scenario on the Table
In this framework, other reports suggest a preliminary agreement that would involve a swap including a cash sum along with French midfielder N'Golo Kanté, in exchange for En-Nesyri, with the player's consent remaining the final hurdle before the deal can be completed.
This development comes as the winter window closes on February 2, 2026, placing pressure on the club to close the deal quickly.
The Players and Timeline
Earlier reports had noted that En-Nesyri rejected a loan move to Juventus, preferring a return to Sevilla if he leaves Fenerbahce. The Moroccan forward is under contract with Fenerbahce until 2029 after joining from Sevilla in 2024 for €20 million.
Al-Ittihad continues to search for a suitable Benzema replacement, as Benzema himself resisted renewal terms, with rumors linking him to a move to Al-Hilal. On the field, En-Nesyri has appeared in 26 matches for Fenerbahce this season across competitions, scoring eight goals, and he previously played for Malaga, Leganés, and Sevilla.
