Wydad Casablanca have completed the signing of midfielder Abdel Ghafour Lamirat from Throne Cup holders Olympique d’Asifi, as part of a major squad overhaul ahead of the new season.
The 27-year-old penned a three-year contract with the Moroccan giants, choosing Wydad over arch-rivals Raja Club Athletic, despite being in advanced talks with the latter.
Financial disagreements ultimately derailed his potential move to Raja.
Lamirat’s arrival comes at a critical time for Wydad, who are under pressure to bounce back from a disappointing Club World Cup campaign.
The club is currently undergoing a major shake-up, with as many as 21 players expected to exit before the start of the new season.
In addition to domestic acquisitions, Wydad remain in talks with South African side Mamelodi Sundowns over a permanent deal for Thembinkosi Lorch, who is currently on loan with the Casablanca-based side.