Hakim Ziyech is expected to continue his career in Brazil, with Botafogo reportedly working on a move for the 33-year-old Morocco international after his departure from Wydad Casablanca.
Several Brazilian outlets, including the well-informed O Globo, say Botafogo are interested in signing the left-footed attacker and are hopeful of bringing him to the club. Ziyech became a free agent after terminating his contract with Wydad last weekend, opening the way for a new challenge.
The exact state of negotiations remains unclear, and Brazilian media have not indicated that an agreement has been completed. However, Botafogo are understood to be preparing for the possibility of his arrival.
Ziyech was initially expected to feature for Wydad in their league match against Palmeiras on Sunday. Instead, he is now expected in Brazil at the start of the week to undergo a medical examination.
A contract running until the end of 2027 is reportedly ready for the former Chelsea player. The proposed move remains dependent on the medical and the absence of any late complications.
If completed, the transfer would bring another high-profile player with experience in the Eredivisie to Brazil’s domestic championship. Ziyech established his reputation in the Netherlands before moving to Chelsea, where he continued his career at the highest level.
The Brazilian league has also recently retained one of its other prominent overseas names. Memphis Depay has extended his contract with Corinthians, despite initially appearing likely to leave. Depay is the leading goalscorer in the history of the Netherlands national team.
For Ziyech, a move to Botafogo would represent his third spell outside Europe. Following his time with Chelsea and Galatasaray, he played in Qatar for Al-Duhail before returning to Morocco with Wydad Casablanca.
His first season with Wydad required a period of adaptation, but he eventually made a significant contribution. Ziyech scored nine goals in 16 appearances for the Moroccan club last season.
His most recent appearance came in June. He subsequently ended his association with Wydad, leaving him available to consider Botafogo’s proposal.
Ziyech began his senior career in the Netherlands and became known for his technical ability and creative play from an advanced midfield or attacking role. His previous clubs include Chelsea, Galatasaray, Al-Duhail and Wydad Casablanca.
For now, the proposed transfer remains at the stage of reported negotiations. Botafogo’s interest, the planned medical and the prepared contract indicate that the Brazilian club are moving towards a deal, but the move will only be confirmed once the remaining steps have been completed.