Real Betis weigh summer move for Algeria international Houssem Aouar

Algeria international Houssem Aouar could be set for a return to European football, with Spanish side Real Betis reportedly interested in signing the midfielder from Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad during the summer transfer window.

The 28-year-old has spent the past two seasons in Saudi Arabia following his move from AS Roma, but reports from Spanish and Middle Eastern media suggest Betis are exploring a deal that would bring the former Olympique Lyonnais academy graduate back to one of Europe’s top leagues.

Although negotiations are still at an early stage, Real Betis are believed to have opened discussions with Al-Ittihad over the possibility of a transfer.

The reported fee is around €5 million, an amount considered within reach for the La Liga club as it looks to strengthen its midfield ahead of the new campaign.

Aouar has built a reputation as a technically gifted midfielder capable of influencing matches with his passing, creativity and ability to operate between the lines.

Those qualities have reportedly made him an attractive option for Betis as they continue to assess reinforcements during the transfer window.

A move to Spain would mark another chapter in Aouar’s European career after previous spells in France with Lyon and in Italy with Roma.

Returning to one of Europe’s leading competitions could also offer the midfielder an opportunity to rediscover the form that established him as one of the continent’s promising midfield talents earlier in his career.

The potential switch could also have implications for his international future with Algeria.

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Aouar struggled for regular playing time under head coach Vladimir Petkovic and was unable to secure a consistent role in the team’s midfield rotation.

Limited opportunities meant he played a less influential role than many had expected during the tournament.

A successful spell in La Liga could strengthen his case for a more prominent place in Algeria’s squad as the national team prepares for future international competitions.

For Real Betis, the reported pursuit reflects the club’s desire to add both quality and experience to its midfield options before the new season begins.

Aouar’s experience across Ligue 1, Serie A and the Saudi Pro League is viewed as an asset that could benefit the Spanish side if an agreement is reached.

Despite the growing speculation, no official announcement has been made by either club. Discussions are reportedly continuing, and it remains to be seen whether Real Betis can finalise a deal for the Algerian midfielder before the transfer window closes.

For now, Aouar remains an Al-Ittihad player, but the prospect of returning to European football is increasingly becoming one of the stories to watch in the closing weeks of the summer transfer market.