Al-Ittihad remain committed to signing Anis Hadj Moussa from Feyenoord but have begun contingency planning as the January transfer window enters its final stretch. The Saudi Pro League club tabled a €40 million offer for the Algerian winger, yet negotiations with the Dutch side have proven difficult to close. With time ticking away, Al-Ittihad have identified Luiz Henrique at Zenit Saint Petersburg as their alternative target should talks collapse.
Hadj Moussa's Desire to Leave Feyenoord
The 24-year-old winger has made his intentions clear to Feyenoord's hierarchy, signalling he is ready to depart for a new challenge. Hadj Moussa, who holds 18 caps for Algeria, joined Feyenoord in 2024 after progressing through RC Lens's academy system in France. His willingness to move keeps momentum behind the Al-Ittihad pursuit, despite ongoing obstacles with the Rotterdam club over fee negotiations and personal terms.
According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Al-Ittihad continue pushing hard to complete the winger's signature. However, the club recognises the deal risks falling through if Feyenoord refuses to budge on their valuation or if the player's demands remain unmet. This realisation prompted Al-Ittihad to activate their contingency strategy well before the window's closure.
Luiz Henrique Emerges as Backup Option
Should negotiations with Feyenoord reach an impasse, Al-Ittihad have already initiated contact with Zenit regarding Brazilian winger Luiz Henrique. The club's urgency to secure attacking reinforcements reflects their tactical priorities and competitive demands in the Saudi Pro League. Initial discussions between the two clubs suggest a credible alternative pathway should the Hadj Moussa transfer stall.
Al-Ittihad's two-pronged approach demonstrates their determination not to enter the final phase of the transfer window without adding width to their squad. Whether the €40 million offer convinces Feyenoord or the focus shifts entirely to the Zenit player, Al-Ittihad will have their winger before the market closes. The coming hours will prove decisive in determining which path the Saudi side ultimately pursues.
