Romanian giants CFR Cluj pull out of deal to sign Moroccan star Hakim Ziyech over injury fears

Romanian club CFR Cluj have officially withdrawn from transfer negotiations to sign Hakim Ziyech, citing medical concerns about the Moroccan international’s left knee.

Club owner Ioan Varga confirmed that discussions with the former Chelsea and Ajax midfielder had collapsed after the club’s medical assessment raised red flags.

Ziyech, who remains a free agent following his departure from Galatasaray, had been in advanced talks with the Romanian champions in what was expected to be one of the biggest signings in their history.

“Ziyech failed, he has a problem in his left knee that I was informed about,” Varga told Prosport. “He’s a very good guy, but I wouldn’t risk that much money for a player who might have medical problems.”

The 31-year-old was reportedly seeking a salary of €2.5 million per year, a figure Cluj’s hierarchy deemed too high given the uncertainty surrounding his fitness.

Varga added that after observing the Moroccan during his stint in Turkey, there were visible signs of discomfort.

“I also studied him in the Galatasaray games, and he seemed to play with some fear,” he said. “We have made the decision to withdraw from the talks. I’m sorry, because he’s a special boy, but I don’t want to risk it.”

Ziyech, who starred for Ajax during their 2019 Champions League run and later joined Chelsea in 2020, has struggled with injuries in recent seasons.

Varga concluded by wishing the player well while confirming Cluj would turn their attention elsewhere.

“I wish him to be healthy, and to be able to play for another team. We will look for another player who is healthy, and we are sure that he can help us.”