Algeria’s record goalscorer Islam Slimani could soon be searching for a new club after CFR Cluj indicated they are unlikely to renew his contract when it expires at the end of the season.

The 37-year-old striker joined the Romanian side in an attempt to prolong his professional career, but his time at the club has not unfolded as expected. Slimani’s deal runs until June, and recent reports suggest the club does not plan to offer the veteran forward an extension.

Limited impact during his time in Romania

During his spell with CFR Cluj, Slimani has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter.

The Algerian international has made 15 appearances for the club, starting only four matches. In those outings, he has scored one goal and contributed two assists.

Those figures have not convinced the club’s management that the experienced striker should remain part of their plans beyond the current campaign.

Sporting director Bogdan Mara recently addressed the situation but avoided confirming the club’s final decision.

“We don’t know yet. We’re already preparing, little by little, for our summer strategy,” he said.

Despite the cautious tone of that statement, reports in Romania indicate that Slimani may no longer be included in the club’s long-term plans.

Career crossroads approaching

For the player, the coming months could represent a decisive moment in a long and varied career.

Slimani has played for several clubs across Europe, including Sporting CP, where he enjoyed some of the most productive years of his career.

Before moving to Romania, the striker also attempted a return to Algeria with CR Belouizdad, though that spell did not produce the expected results.

His move back to Europe was widely seen as an attempt to remain visible to national team selectors.

However, since Vladimir Petković took charge of Algeria national football team, Slimani has not been recalled to the squad.

World Cup ambitions fading

Slimani remains the all-time leading scorer for Algeria with 46 goals in 105 appearances, but the prospect of adding to that record appears increasingly unlikely.

The forward also featured with Algeria’s A’ team during the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, under coach Madjid Bougherra, though the tournament did not revive his international prospects.

With no guarantee of another call-up and limited playing time at club level, the possibility of retirement has begun to emerge as a realistic scenario.

For now, the experienced striker must decide whether to seek one final challenge elsewhere or bring an end to a career that has spanned numerous leagues and international tournaments.