Al-Ittihad turn to Morocco’s Chemsdine Talbi after failed Anis Hadj Moussa move

Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad have reportedly turned their attention to Morocco international Chemsedine Talbi after failing to secure a deal for Algeria winger Anis Hadj Moussa.

The Saudi Pro League club are said to have opened negotiations with Premier League side Sunderland over a move for the 21-year-old winger, according to Sky Sports.

Al-Ittihad’s interest comes after Feyenoord rejected a reported €30m offer for Algerian international Hadj Moussa, leaving the Saudi club searching for alternatives.

The club are keen to strengthen their options on the right wing following the departure of French international Moussa Diaby to German side Bayer Leverkusen.

Sunderland open to Talbi departure

Sky Sports reports that Sunderland could be willing to allow Talbi to leave during the current transfer window.

The Moroccan winger was reportedly left out of Sunderland’s European squad for the season, potentially opening the door for a move away from the club.

However, Al-Ittihad face competition for his signature.

According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Turkish giants Galatasaray and Besiktas are also interested in signing the 21-year-old.

En-Nesyri connection could help Al-Ittihad

Al-Ittihad may hope the presence of fellow Morocco international Youssef En-Nesyri could help convince Talbi to make the move to Saudi Arabia.

En-Nesyri has been with the club since joining during the previous winter transfer window, giving Talbi the prospect of linking up with a familiar international teammate.

For Moroccan football supporters, a potential move would see another member of the Atlas Lions join one of the most prominent clubs in Saudi Arabian football.

Talbi’s Premier League journey

Talbi joined Sunderland from Belgian side Club Brugge during the previous summer transfer window in a deal worth around £18m.

He has made 31 appearances for the English club, scoring four goals and providing two assists.

Al-Ittihad have been actively searching for a winger throughout the transfer window but have so far been unable to complete a deal.

After missing out on Hadj Moussa, the Saudi side have now reportedly identified Talbi as a leading alternative as they look to fill the void left by Diaby’s departure.

With interest also coming from Galatasaray and Besiktas, the Moroccan winger could yet find himself at the centre of a late transfer battle before the window closes.