Moroccan giants hit financial roadblock in bid to bring En-Nesyri home

Maghreb Fes have confirmed they are in talks to sign Morocco international Youssef En-Nesyri from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, but the striker’s salary remains the biggest obstacle to completing the deal.

The Botola Pro club are hoping to bring En-Nesyri back to the side where he began his career, although matching the wages he currently earns in Saudi Arabia has proved beyond their financial reach.

Wage demands stall negotiations

Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, but Maghreb Fes have acknowledged that the financial package required to secure the 29-year-old’s return is currently out of reach.

Club official Abdelhak El Marrakchi, a member of Maghreb Fes’ committee of wise men, admitted that the player’s salary is the main stumbling block in the negotiations.

“Negotiations have indeed taken place to sign Youssef En-Nesyri from Al-Ittihad, but up to this moment the player’s salary is an obstacle to the deal, and we cannot pay his salary that he receives in the Roshan League.”

El Marrakchi added that the transfer could still become a reality if the Morocco international is prepared to accept a lower salary.

“The player’s willingness to forgo part of his earnings in the Saudi league could open the door to the possibility of his return to Maghreb Fez.”

Al-Ittihad reshaping attack

The uncertainty surrounding En-Nesyri’s future comes as Al-Ittihad look to revamp their attacking options ahead of the new season.

Reports have suggested the Saudi club are open to allowing the striker to leave as they pursue a new forward to strengthen their frontline.

En-Nesyri joined Al-Ittihad from Turkish club Fenerbahce in January 2026 with high expectations, but his spell in Jeddah has not unfolded as planned.

Return depends on compromise

Despite scoring eight goals and providing one assist in 18 appearances across all competitions, Al-Ittihad are reportedly reassessing the striker’s role before the new campaign.

For Maghreb Fes, bringing one of Morocco’s most recognisable forwards back to the Botola Pro would represent a major statement of intent. However, unless En-Nesyri agrees to reduce his salary, a homecoming appears unlikely despite both clubs remaining in discussions.