Benfica weigh move for Souffian El Karouani as Al Qadsiah role remains uncertain

Benfica have renewed their interest in Al Qadsiah left-back Souffian El Karouani but have yet to make a formal offer for the Morocco international before the summer transfer window closes.

El Karouani, 25, is under contract with the Saudi Pro League club until 2029, although his limited involvement since joining has created uncertainty over his future. Benfica are monitoring the situation as they consider whether to make a late move for the defender.

Portuguese newspaper A Bola reports that Benfica have requested information about El Karouani’s availability. The player joined Al Qadsiah after his contract with Utrecht expired, having previously attracted interest from several leading clubs, including Benfica, Sporting CP and Porto.

His attacking output is understood to be a major reason for that interest. During the 2025-26 season with Utrecht, El Karouani made 50 appearances, scoring four goals and providing 18 assists.

However, Saudi media reports say the left-back has struggled to settle at Al Qadsiah and has not played in a competitive fixture for the club. He was also left out of the squads for the team’s opening matches.

The situation has been complicated by Saudi Pro League regulations, which allow clubs to name a maximum of eight foreign players in a matchday squad. Al Qadsiah currently have 14 overseas players on their books, including Julian Weigl, Portugal international Otavio and Netherlands international Tijjani Reijnders, who recently joined from Manchester City.

That competition for places has increased the pressure on Al Qadsiah to consider moving El Karouani on. The club are understood to be weighing up either a permanent transfer or a loan deal.

The player’s circumstances could make him an immediate option for Marco Silva, who is looking to strengthen Benfica’s left side. El Karouani would provide an alternative alongside Sweden international Samuel Dahl and 18-year-old Jose Neto.

Benfica are also considering several other targets and have not yet committed to making a formal approach. The Portuguese club are assessing all of their options before deciding whether to advance negotiations.

A deal would nevertheless present financial complications. El Karouani’s contract runs until 2029 and his reported annual salary of about €7m would make the transfer difficult for Portuguese clubs to finance.

Yet his absence from Al Qadsiah’s matchday squads, combined with the Saudi club’s crowded foreign-player list, could create an opportunity for Benfica late in the transfer window. The lack of regular football may also encourage Al Qadsiah to reach an agreement despite the player’s long-term contract and substantial wages.

For now, Benfica’s interest remains at the enquiry stage, with no official bid submitted. But the uncertainty surrounding El Karouani’s position at Al Qadsiah has left open the possibility of a late move before the window closes.