Moroccan defender Souffian El Karouani set for free transfer to Al Qadsiah

Moroccan left-back Souffian El Karouani is preparing to continue his career in Saudi Arabia after reaching a final agreement to join Al Qadsiah FC from FC Utrecht.

The 25-year-old defender will move to the Saudi Pro League side on a free transfer when his contract with Utrecht expires this summer.

The deal means the Dutch club will not receive a transfer fee for the Moroccan international, who is set to leave after establishing himself as one of the most productive full-backs in the Eredivisie.

Despite speculation surrounding the negotiations, reports indicate that Al Qadsiah’s management have now approved all the necessary steps required to finalise the transfer.

The move is also expected to bring a major financial boost for the defender. According to Actu Foot Maroc, El Karouani’s annual salary will rise significantly, increasing 17 times to reach €3 million per year after his arrival in Saudi Arabia.

At Al Qadsiah, the Moroccan international is expected to work under Northern Irish coach Brendan Rodgers, whose managerial career includes spells with Liverpool FC and Leicester City FC.

The Saudi club, currently fourth in the league standings, reportedly won the race for the defender despite interest from teams in England and Turkey.

El Karouani ultimately chose the opportunity abroad as he prepares for a new stage in his career away from Dutch football.

The Nijmegen-born player leaves Utrecht after a productive spell that strengthened his reputation in the Netherlands.

Since joining the club in 2023, he made 113 appearances and became one of the league’s most influential attacking full-backs despite primarily operating in defence.

His performances during the current campaign particularly highlighted his importance within the squad.

Across 32 matchdays, El Karouani contributed to 13 goals, underlining his attacking qualities and consistency from the left side of defence.

The transfer now signals the end of a successful period in the Eredivisie and the beginning of a fresh challenge in Saudi Arabia for the Moroccan international.