Algerian international Mohamed Bachir Belloumi is at the center of transfer speculation following an impressive season with Sporting Club Farense in Portugal. At 22, the winger has caught the eye of several top European clubs, making his retention by Farense increasingly unlikely.
Belloumi’s stellar performances throughout the 2023-24 season, including being named player of the month for April in the Portuguese championship, have elevated his profile.
Farense’s president, João Rodrigues, has acknowledged the challenge of keeping both Belloumi and their standout goalkeeper, Ricardo Velho, amid significant interest from foreign clubs.
“It will be difficult to retain the two players because there are not just one or two proposals, there are several.
If it were one or two options, we could still say that the negotiations could not succeed, but there have already been firm proposals, by the millions,” Rodrigues told RTP Sport.
He confirmed that multiple offers are on the table for both players, including from clubs outside Portugal, although no concrete deals have been finalized.
Belloumi’s Future Likely Abroad
Rodrigues further indicated that Belloumi is almost certain to leave Portugal. “We have to see what will be the best way to achieve this for everyone, including and especially the players, but also for our club.
At this stage, no door is closed, but things can evolve very quickly,” he admitted. “Belloumi’s next destination will be 95% outside the Portuguese championship.
Benfica has yet to make an official offer, which cannot pay the release clause.”
The interest in Belloumi spans across Europe, with clubs from France, Germany, England, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, and Turkey all expressing a desire to sign the talented winger. His release clause is set at 15 million euros, a testament to his rising value and potential.
Following in the Footsteps of Riyad Mahrez
Belloumi is often compared to former Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez, known for his exceptional skill and playmaking abilities.
Both players share similar characteristics and play as right wingers, which has fueled comparisons and heightened expectations for Belloumi’s future.
Despite being overlooked for the national team’s June regrouping by coach Vladimir Petkovic, who favored Anis Hadj-Moussa, Belloumi’s season stats speak for themselves.
He made 35 appearances for Farense, scoring 7 goals and providing 5 assists.
His performances have not only drawn the attention of scouts but also garnered praise from fans and media alike.
Portuguese media has highlighted the interest from Lisbon’s football giants, Benfica and Sporting, in Belloumi’s talent.
However, with a plethora of European clubs vying for his signature, his next career move seems set to take him to one of the continent’s top leagues.
As the transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on where Mohamed Bachir Belloumi lands, with his trajectory promising an exciting chapter ahead for the young Algerian star.
