Rafik Belghali joins Torino in move designed to extend his Serie A rise

Published on: 01 September 2026

Rafik Belghali has completed a move from Hellas Verona to Torino, with the Algeria right-back joining on a season-long loan that includes an obligation to buy subject to certain conditions.

The 24-year-old defender had attracted interest from several clubs, as first reported exclusively by Africafoot, but will remain in Serie A after making the switch to Torino. The deal has now been formally confirmed by the Turin club.

Torino are hoping Belghali’s arrival will add further strength and quality to their squad on the right side of defence. The Algerian international is viewed as a player capable of contributing both immediately and over the longer term, should the conditions attached to the agreement lead to a permanent transfer.

Belghali joined Hellas Verona in the summer of 2025 from KV Mechelen. He quickly established himself in the Serie A landscape, earning recognition for his performances at club level.

That progress also helped him secure a place in the Algeria national team. His move to Torino gives him the opportunity to continue developing in Italy’s top flight while further establishing himself as an international-standard defender.

Although he has left Hellas Verona on loan, Belghali remains under contract with the club until 30 June 2029. His current estimated market value is €12m.

Torino’s decision to recruit him comes as the club prepares for its third Serie A fixture of the season, against Fiorentina. The match will provide the new signing with a potentially early opportunity to become part of his new side’s plans, although no indication has been given about whether he will feature.

Ahead of the fixture, betting company 1xBet lists Torino as the outsiders, with the home side priced at 4.20 to win. A draw is priced at 3.30, while Fiorentina are listed at 1.82 to claim victory.

Belghali’s transfer keeps him in the Italian top flight at a time when his career has gathered momentum. After arriving in Verona from KV Mechelen and making an impression quickly, he now begins the next stage of his development with Torino, who will be looking to benefit from his performances in the right-hand defensive channel.

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