Real Betis keep Sofyan Amrabat on shortlist despite transfer fee gap

Real Betis remain determined to sign Sofyan Amrabat, who spent last season on loan at Benito Villamarin, but negotiations with Fenerbahce continue to be complicated by the Turkish club’s financial demands.

The Morocco international is still one of Betis’ leading options to strengthen the holding midfield position. Although the arrival of Vasco Bernal has given Manuel Pellegrini’s side greater solidity and balance in the centre of the pitch, the manager believes he needs another defensively minded midfielder.

Pellegrini sees Amrabat as a player capable of filling that role, with the midfielder already familiar with the club and its surroundings following his loan spell. Betis would therefore prefer to bring him back to the squad, while Amrabat himself is also understood to favour a return to the Spanish top flight.

The main obstacle remains the cost of making the move permanent. Fenerbahce are seeking a fee of more than 10m euros for the 29-year-old, a figure Real Betis are currently unable to reach.

That valuation has left the proposed transfer in a similar position to before, with the Spanish club interested but unable to match the level required by Amrabat’s current side. The player has other offers available, yet he is waiting for greater clarity over his future while hoping to return to La Liga.

Amrabat was satisfied with the way he adapted during his first year at Real Betis, and that experience has increased his preference for continuing his career at Benito Villamarin. The Moroccan midfielder is consequently waiting to see whether the two clubs can find a financial agreement.

All parties are keen to resolve the situation soon. Betis want to determine whether they can complete the transfer, Fenerbahce are seeking a substantial permanent fee, and Amrabat would rather return to the club where he spent the previous campaign.

From a sporting perspective, Amrabat believes he can make an important contribution during a season in which Champions League football provides an additional incentive. That competition would increase the demands on Pellegrini’s squad, with the manager needing to strengthen his options in most positions.

The need for greater depth is particularly relevant in midfield, where Pellegrini wants an alternative capable of offering defensive protection and balance. Vasco Bernal’s arrival has improved those qualities, but the manager does not consider the area complete and continues to view Amrabat as a suitable solution.

For now, however, the difference between Fenerbahce’s asking price and Real Betis’ financial capacity is preventing the preferred reunion from moving forward. Amrabat’s desire to return gives the Spanish club encouragement, but the deal will depend on whether the clubs can overcome the fee of more than 10m euros.