English Premier League
Espanyol open talks with Al Ittihad over defender Jan-Carlo Simic move to La Liga
Espanyol have opened negotiations with Al Ittihad over a deal for Serbian defender Jan-Carlo Simic, as the Saudi Pro League club reshape their squad for next season.
The Barcelona-based side have begun discussions with Al Ittihad about signing the 19-year-old during the current summer transfer window, with both a permanent transfer and a loan move under consideration, according to Saudi newspaper Arriyadiyah.
Al Ittihad officials are reported to have held initial verbal talks with Espanyol as they weigh up the best formula for Simic’s departure as part of a broader restructuring of their first-team squad.
Any agreement between the clubs will still hinge on the player’s approval, with Simic yet to give the green light to a switch to Spain. The negotiations remain at a stage where the defender’s personal decision will be decisive if a final deal is reached.
Ittihad reshaping foreign quota
The proposed move comes as Al Ittihad work to streamline their list of foreign players to match the technical requirements of their coaching staff for the upcoming campaign.
Club management are seeking to reduce the number of overseas players in the squad, and Simic is among those who could be allowed to leave in order to balance the group for next season.
Simic joined Al Ittihad last summer on a long-term contract running until 2029, arriving as a dual option for the first team and the under-21 side.
Limited impact in debut season
Since his arrival in Jeddah, the centre-back has made 15 appearances for Al Ittihad across all competitions, accumulating 1,166 minutes on the pitch.
During that time he has received two yellow cards but has yet to score or provide an assist for the Saudi club.
No fee has been disclosed at this stage for either a sale or a loan, and neither club has made a public statement on the negotiations.
However, the talks underline Al Ittihad’s intent to adjust their squad composition ahead of the new season, while offering Simic the possibility of a first spell in La Liga if the deal is completed and he agrees to the move.
