Barcelona assignment changes transfer picture for Anis Hadj Moussa

Feyenoord have blocked Anis Hadj Moussa’s proposed move to Al-Ittihad, despite reports that the Saudi Pro League club had agreed a deal worth €30m for the Algeria winger.

The Dutch side decided against completing the transfer because of concerns over their attacking options, with a Champions League meeting against Barcelona scheduled for next Wednesday.

Reports had indicated that Al-Ittihad and Feyenoord had reached an agreement for Hadj Moussa during the current summer transfer window. However, Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf says Feyenoord have refused to allow the 23-year-old to leave.

Feyenoord’s decision has been influenced by the departure of Japan striker Ayase Ueda, who joined French club Lille last week. Losing Hadj Moussa as well would leave the club with even fewer attacking alternatives at a crucial stage of the season.

The Dutch summer transfer window closed on Wednesday evening, meaning Feyenoord cannot sign a direct replacement for the Algerian winger. The club may still bring in players who are not under contract with another team, but those additions could not be registered for their Champions League squad because the registration period also closed on Wednesday.

Feyenoord believe Hadj Moussa’s departure would damage their prospects in Europe’s premier club competition. Their campaign begins with a major test against Barcelona at Spotify Camp Nou next Wednesday.

The situation is a setback for Al-Ittihad, who must now consider alternative targets. The Saudi club are also looking to strengthen after French winger Moussa Diaby left for Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday.

Hadj Moussa has been an important player for Feyenoord since joining the club in the summer of 2024. He has made 86 appearances, scoring 26 goals and providing 13 assists.

His performances had attracted Al-Ittihad, who were reportedly prepared to invest €30m to secure his services. However, Feyenoord’s need to maintain attacking depth, combined with the imminent Champions League opener against Barcelona, has now left the transfer in doubt.

The Dutch club’s inability to register a replacement in the Champions League has further complicated matters. Even if Feyenoord were able to recruit a free agent after the domestic window closed, that player would not be available for the opening stage of their European campaign.

As a result, Al-Ittihad’s attempt to add Hadj Moussa to their squad has stalled, and the club will have to search for another solution following the winger’s failed move.