El Mehdi Benabid: Saudi side Al-Hazem eye move for Wydad AC’s Morocco goalkeeper

Morocco goalkeeper El Mehdi Benabid of Wydad AC is being linked with a move to Saudi Pro League club Al-Hazem as speculation builds over his future in Casablanca.

The 28-year-old, born in Rabat and standing at 1.88m, is currently valued at €1.50m on Transfermarkt, a fee seen as accessible for an Al-Hazem side seeking to reinforce their goalkeeping department. The reported probability of the deal remains unclear, listed only as “?” on transfer databases, underlining that talks, if any, are at an early stage.

Benabid’s contractual situation at Wydad AC is adding intrigue to the rumour. With no public information on when his deal was signed or when it expires, there is growing external speculation that he could be approaching the end of his terms and potentially become a free agent, a scenario that would significantly lower the cost for Al-Hazem.

The Wydad No 16, a right-footed goalkeeper, has built his reputation in the Botola Pro Inwi and is part of the set-up at Wydad Casablanca, one of Morocco’s most successful clubs. He has experience at the top level domestically and in continental competition with the Casablanca giants, strengthening his appeal to suitors in the Gulf.

In his most recent outing, Benabid featured for Wydad AC in a Botola Pro Inwi match against ASFAR Rabat on 28 June 2026, a tight encounter that finished 1-1. The Moroccan keeper produced a solid display, highlighted by several crucial saves in the second half to preserve the draw.

With Saudi clubs continuing to scour North Africa for value in the transfer market, a move to Al-Hazem would offer Benabid a fresh stage and could prove a pivotal step in shaping the next phase of his career and reputation if the transfer ultimately materialises.