Espanyol negotiate move for Al Ittihad defender Jan-Carlo Simic as La Liga switch edges closer

Espanyol have entered negotiations with Al Ittihad over a deal for Serbian defender Jan-Carlo Simic, with the Saudi Pro League club open to a permanent transfer or a loan as they reshape their squad for next season.

Al Ittihad have begun verbal talks with the Spanish side regarding Simic’s potential move in the current summer transfer window, according to Saudi newspaper Arriyadiyah. The discussions form part of a broader restructuring of the Jeddah club’s squad, particularly its foreign-player contingent.

No agreement has yet been finalised, and any deal remains dependent on the 19-year-old’s approval, even if the two clubs reach common ground on the financial and contractual terms.

Ittihad rethink foreign quota

Al Ittihad’s hierarchy are currently working to streamline the first-team squad by reducing the number of overseas players to align with the technical staff’s plans for the coming campaign.

Simic is among the players who could make way as part of that process, with Espanyol viewing him as a candidate to bolster their defensive options as they prepare for the new season in Spain.

The negotiations cover two scenarios: a full transfer that would see Simic leave Al Ittihad on a permanent basis, or a loan arrangement that would allow him to gain experience in La Liga while remaining under contract with the Saudi club.

Long-term contract but limited impact

Al Ittihad signed Jan-Carlo Simic last summer on a long-term deal running until 2029, recruiting him to strengthen both the first team and the under-21 side.

Since arriving in Jeddah, the centre-back has featured in 15 matches across all competitions, totalling 1,166 minutes of playing time. During that spell he has received two yellow cards and is yet to register a goal or an assist.

Despite that relatively modest impact, Simic’s age and profile make him an attractive prospect for Espanyol, who are exploring opportunities to reinforce their back line without committing to high-cost, short-term options.

Player decision still key

While the two clubs have taken the initial step of opening verbal discussions, the talks remain at a preliminary stage. Progress will depend not only on the structure of any agreement between Al Ittihad and Espanyol, but also on Simic’s willingness to continue his career in Spain.

Should all parties reach agreement, the move would mark Simic’s first spell in La Liga and would underline Al Ittihad’s determination to remodel their foreign ranks ahead of the new season. For now, though, his future remains undecided as negotiations continue.