Moroccan international Hakim Ziyech considered by Elche as transfer deadline nears

Hakim Ziyech could be set for a surprise move to Spain, with La Liga newcomers Elche reportedly exploring the possibility of signing the Moroccan international before the close of the transfer window.

The 32-year-old, currently a free agent, has been without a club since leaving Al-Duhail following a short and difficult spell.

According to Dutch outlet Voetbal International, Elche are weighing up a move for the experienced playmaker as they look to strengthen their attack in a bid to secure survival in Spain’s top flight.

Talks are believed to be in the early stages, with financial demands and competition from other interested clubs posing potential obstacles.

However, the move could offer Ziyech a long-awaited return to one of Europe’s top five leagues after stints at Galatasaray and in Qatar that failed to reignite his career.

The prospect of returning to top-level competition is particularly crucial for Ziyech, with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations just months away.

The tournament, set to be staged in Morocco from December 21 to January 18, represents a chance for the former Ajax and Chelsea star to play a leading role on home soil—if he can secure regular playing time in the months ahead.

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui addressed Ziyech’s situation on Thursday while unveiling his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Niger on 5 September and Zambia on 8 September.

For the moment, Hakim has not joined any club, so obviously he is not eligible for selection, Regragui told reporters. I hope he will find a solution and return to his best level to apply for the national team. We want Hakim at 100% at the highest level. It is also a question of playing time. He is a star for us, a star for Morocco.

Ziyech last featured for the Atlas Lions on 9 September 2024 against Lesotho, but his absence from competitive football since then has prevented him from being considered for recent international call-ups.

With less than four months remaining before the start of the continental tournament, time is running out for the midfielder to secure a deal that would both restore his form and keep him in contention for Morocco’s final squad.

For Elche, the potential arrival of a player of Ziyech’s calibre would represent a significant coup.

For the player himself, it may well be a last opportunity to relaunch his career at the highest level and ensure he takes part in Morocco’s most eagerly anticipated tournament in decades.