Morocco: Wydad Casablanca abandons Ayoub El Amloud talks over financial dispute

Wydad Casablanca has formally withdrawn from negotiations to re-sign former defender Ayoub El Amloud, citing financial disagreements as the primary reason for ending the talks.

The Moroccan full-back had requested a signing bonus of €600,000, a figure that Wydad’s hierarchy viewed as incompatible with the club’s current financial structure and wage framework.

El Amloud, who recently concluded a spell with Iran’s Persepolis FC, had been widely expected to return to the Casablanca outfit, where he previously featured.

However, the deal has now collapsed after Wydad opted not to meet the player’s demands.

In the wake of the failed negotiations, the club has turned its attention to alternative reinforcements.

Discussions have reportedly begun with a promising Moroccan right-back holding dual nationality, described as one of the rising prospects in domestic football.

We must strengthen our workforce intelligently. Investing in young people with high potential, while maintaining budgetary control, remains the best option for preparing for the future.

The shift in strategy reflects Wydad’s commitment to balancing competitive ambition with long-term financial sustainability.

Club officials are understood to be keen on nurturing a new generation of talent, rather than engaging in deals that could upset the internal salary equilibrium.

El Amloud, 29, is now exploring options elsewhere.

Reports indicate that Turkish outfit Rizespor has shown interest, while several clubs in the Gulf region are also monitoring the situation.

With the door at Wydad effectively shut, the defender faces a decision between a European adventure and a potentially lucrative move to the Middle East.

He remains without a club following the expiration of his contract in Iran and is currently valued at €800,000, according to Transfermarkt.

The latest development signals a definitive close to El Amloud’s possible return to the Red Castle, as Wydad now focuses on building a team for the future with youth and sustainability at its core.