Al-Ittihad are preparing to offload Algerian international Houssem Aouar to clear the way for a high-profile move for FC Porto teenager Rodrigo Mora, with the Saudi Pro League side reportedly willing to meet the 18-year-old’s €70 million release clause.
Aouar, who joined the Jeddah-based club last summer after leaving AS Roma, has struggled to cement his place in the squad and is now considered surplus to requirements.
The 27-year-old midfielder made 34 appearances last season, scoring 13 goals and delivering four assists, but his performance in Al-Ittihad’s recent 2-1 Saudi Super Cup defeat to Al-Nassr has reportedly further weakened his position at the club.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Al-Ittihad’s hierarchy view Mora as a marquee signing to bolster their attacking options, and are prepared to make a significant financial commitment to secure his services.
This move would likely force Aouar to seek a new club before the transfer window closes on 1 September, with interest already emerging from Europe.
The former Lyon midfielder, who has earned 14 international caps and scored five goals for Algeria, is also looking ahead to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will take place in Morocco from 21 December to 18 January.
Securing regular playing time in a competitive league is seen as crucial for the playmaker ahead of the tournament.
Reports suggest several Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa and Bournemouth, are monitoring Aouar’s situation, while a return to France could also be on the cards.
Having spent over a decade at Olympique Lyonnais before departing in 2023, Ligue 1 clubs are reportedly open to bringing him back to French football.
Al-Ittihad’s willingness to part ways with Aouar after just one season underscores the club’s ambition to build a squad capable of challenging for titles.
The pursuit of Mora, one of Portugal’s most promising young talents, signals a clear intention to invest heavily in future prospects.
For Aouar, a move away from Saudi Arabia could offer the opportunity to revive his career at the highest level. With the European transfer window set to close in just over a week, the coming days are expected to be decisive for his future as clubs across Europe weigh up a potential move for the Algerian midfielder.
