Angers SCO midfielder Himad Abdelli has undergone successful surgery on a persistent back injury, sidelining the Algerian international for an estimated three weeks.
Despite the short-term setback, the 25-year-old remains the subject of strong interest from several European clubs during the summer transfer window.
The operation was carried out to address a lingering hernia issue that had troubled Abdelli for several months.
Although the procedure will temporarily halt his pre-season preparations, it is not expected to jeopardize ongoing negotiations surrounding his future.
Leeds United, freshly promoted to the Premier League, have reportedly expressed serious interest in the versatile midfielder.
Sources suggest the English club views Abdelli as a valuable addition to strengthen their options in central midfield as they prepare for life back in the top flight.
Interest is not limited to England. Serie A side Torino and Turkish giants Trabzonspor are also believed to be monitoring the situation closely.
Both clubs are reportedly assessing whether to table formal offers in the coming weeks, aware that Angers may be open to discussions for the right price.
Abdelli, who has earned a reputation for his composure on the ball, tactical awareness, and relentless work rate, completed the 2023/24 season under challenging physical conditions.
Despite being hampered by his injury, he remained a key presence for Angers throughout the campaign and continued to display the consistency and maturity that have caught the attention of recruiters across Europe.
His commitment did not go unnoticed. In a recent post on social media, the midfielder acknowledged the challenges he faced, stating simply: “Still standing.”
The message, brief but resolute, echoed his resilience and hinted at his determination to return stronger following his recovery.
Now in the final years of his contract, Abdelli finds himself at a crossroads. While Angers would benefit from retaining a player of his calibre as they seek stability in Ligue 2, the club also recognises that this summer may represent a prime opportunity to capitalise on external interest.
Whether Abdelli will continue his career in Maine-et-Loire or embark on a new chapter remains uncertain. Much may depend on how swiftly he recovers from surgery and how negotiations develop over the coming weeks.
What is clear, however, is that his reputation continues to rise. Even as he recovers from injury, clubs across the continent remain convinced of his long-term value, and his professionalism throughout a physically taxing season has only strengthened that belief.
With several suitors circling and Angers open to discussions, the coming days could be decisive. For now, Himad Abdelli begins his recovery with his future hanging in the balance—and the European market watching closely.