Hakim Ziyech has emerged as a target for Serie A sides Bologna and Fiorentina, just days after his official departure from Qatari club Al Duhail was confirmed.
The Moroccan international, who recently concluded a brief spell in the Qatar Stars League, is now available on a free transfer. His return to European football appears imminent, with both Italian clubs understood to be positioning themselves for a potential move in the coming weeks.
Despite a recent dip in form, Ziyech remains a player of considerable pedigree. Known for his creativity, vision, and ability to unlock defences, the 32-year-old winger is seen as a valuable short-term asset by clubs seeking experience and flair on the flanks.
According to sources close to the player, his representatives have been contacted by technical directors from both Bologna and Fiorentina, signalling formal interest from within Serie A.
Ziyech’s current free-agent status makes him a particularly appealing prospect in the transfer market. Interested clubs will not need to pay a transfer fee, only a signing bonus and wages, allowing greater financial flexibility for any deal.
Both Bologna and Fiorentina view this as an economical opportunity to add quality to their squads without straining their budgets.
Over the course of the 2024–25 season, Ziyech made 24 appearances in all competitions, scoring once and providing two assists.
While those statistics reflect a more subdued campaign compared to his earlier years, clubs remain confident that, in the right environment, the former Ajax and Chelsea star can rediscover his best form.
Ziyech’s journey through European football has seen him excel in the Netherlands and England, where he gained recognition for his attacking output and set-piece delivery.
A standout performer at Ajax, he earned a move to Chelsea in 2020 but struggled to maintain a consistent starting role in a squad full of high-profile signings.
Following intermittent spells of success and limited game time at Stamford Bridge, he eventually moved to Al Duhail in Qatar in search of regular minutes.
Now a free agent once again, Ziyech is reportedly open to a return to Europe, with Italy viewed as a preferred destination.
The style of Serie A, which often favours technical ability and tactical discipline, could offer the veteran winger a platform to reignite his career.
For Bologna and Fiorentina, both of whom are aiming to strengthen their squads ahead of the 2025–26 campaign, Ziyech offers a proven international profile with Champions League experience.
Talks are understood to be ongoing, with both clubs exploring the feasibility of a short-term deal.
While no formal agreement has yet been reached, the competition for Ziyech’s signature is expected to intensify as the transfer window progresses.
With the player evaluating his options and Italian clubs keen to act swiftly, a resolution could arrive sooner rather than later.
Ziyech’s future remains undecided, but what is clear is that his return to one of Europe’s top leagues is firmly on the horizon.
