Wydad AC move to secure goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid with new contract amid squad rebuild

Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club have reportedly opened discussions with goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid over a new contract as the club seeks to secure the future of one of its most important players ahead of the 2026/27 season.

According to reports, Wydad’s management has already begun negotiations with the Moroccan shot-stopper in an effort to extend his stay at the Casablanca-based club. The move forms part of a broader strategy aimed at maintaining squad stability while strengthening the team for the challenges that lie ahead.

The discussions are said to have started in recent days and have taken place in a positive atmosphere, with both parties reportedly expressing a strong willingness to continue their partnership. Club officials are understood to be pleased with Benabid’s performances since his arrival and view him as a central figure in the team’s long-term plans.

Since joining Wydad, the goalkeeper has established himself as one of the most dependable players in the squad, producing a series of impressive displays between the posts. His consistency, command of the penalty area and ability to make crucial saves have earned him the confidence of the club’s hierarchy, coaching staff and supporters alike.

As a result, Wydad have made the renewal of Benabid’s contract one of their highest priorities during the current summer transfer window. The club is keen to avoid a situation in which the goalkeeper enters the final year of his existing deal, a scenario that could potentially attract interest from rival clubs and complicate future negotiations.

The management believes securing Benabid’s long-term future would not only protect a valuable asset but also provide continuity within a squad undergoing significant changes ahead of the new campaign.

The decision to prioritise the goalkeeper’s renewal is also closely linked to the vision of newly appointed head coach Paulo Sergio. The Portuguese tactician is expected to rely heavily on experienced and proven performers as he looks to build a competitive side capable of challenging for major honours both domestically and on the continental stage.

Benabid is viewed as one of the foundations upon which the new technical project can be built. His experience and familiarity with the club’s demands are considered vital assets as Wydad seek to return to the summit of Moroccan and African football.

As per sources, talks between the club and the goalkeeper’s representatives are expected in the coming days. Both sides remain optimistic that an agreement can be reached, paving the way for Benabid to continue guarding Wydad’s goal for several more years.

The contract negotiations come at a busy period for the club’s leadership, which has been actively working to reshape the squad ahead of the upcoming season.

Under the leadership of club president Ibrahim Al-Asri, Wydad recently announced the arrival of three new signings as part of their summer recruitment drive. The club confirmed the acquisition of goalkeeper Rachid Ghanimi, alongside midfielder Hamza Janan Allah and attacking player Ayman Al-Hassouni.

The recent additions are expected to be followed by further signings as Wydad continue to strengthen key areas of the squad. Club officials are believed to be working on several transfer targets in an effort to provide Paulo Sergio with the resources needed to compete on multiple fronts.

While new arrivals have dominated headlines in recent weeks, Wydad’s management remains equally focused on retaining the core players who are already part of the team. In that regard, extending Benabid’s contract is viewed as a crucial piece of the club’s planning.

With negotiations progressing positively and both parties eager to continue their collaboration, there is growing confidence that Mehdi Benabid’s future will remain firmly tied to Wydad Athletic Club as the club prepares for a new chapter under Paulo Sergio.