Mehdi Dorval will remain at SSC Bari until the end of the season after the Serie B club opted to keep the Algerian international despite concrete interest during the winter transfer window.
With the Italian market now closed, Dorval’s contract situation is clear: the 24-year-old full-back will see out the final months of his deal, which expires in June, before becoming a free agent this summer. Several moves were explored in recent weeks, but Bari ultimately chose continuity over a mid-season departure.
Dorval, who turns 25 next week, is considered to be entering a decisive phase of his career. No longer viewed as a developing prospect, he has been keen to test himself at a higher level and has attracted attention from clubs monitoring his progress in Serie B.
According to reports in Italy, Genoa, currently competing in Serie A, made an approach in an attempt to secure his services. That offer was turned down by Bari, who were also unwilling to sanction a move to fellow Serie B side Modena.
The club’s stance means Dorval will complete the campaign in southern Italy unless a late opportunity arises from a league where the transfer window remains open.
Capable of operating on either side of the defence, his versatility has made him an important option for Bari as they navigate the remainder of the season.
While his immediate focus remains on his current club, Dorval has acknowledged that his longer-term future is still open. A product of French football before his move to Italy, he has not ruled out the idea of returning across the border if the right circumstances present themselves.
“A return to France could be considered, especially if a good opportunity arises, but I remain focused on my current season and building my future step by step,” he said.
For Bari, retaining Dorval provides short-term stability but also carries an element of risk, with the player able to leave for nothing at the end of the campaign.
For Dorval himself, the coming months represent both an opportunity to finish strongly and a chance to position himself ahead of a potentially significant summer decision.
