A major transfer is brewing in South America, as Brazilian outfit Botafogo prepare to welcome a former UEFA Champions League winner.
According to ESPN Brasil, Morocco international Hakim Ziyech is closing in on a move to Botafogo as a free agent.
Following a breakdown in relations between the winger and his former club Wydad Casablanca, the Rio de Janeiro side have swooped into action to convince him to join them.
He will bring proven Champions League experience to Botafogo as they bolster their squad for domestic and continental glory.
What Happened Between Ziyech and Wydad Casablanca?
Hakim Ziyech is in the process of moving to Botafogo because he has successfully terminated his contract with Wydad Casablanca.
The 33-year-old playmaker joined the Moroccan giants in 2025 for his first taste of domestic football in his home country.
He played just 16 times for the club, scoring nine goals and providing two assists, before things began to go sideways.
Owing him months of wages, Wydad reportedly wanted the former Chelsea man to accept a pay cut for the final year of his contract, but he refused the terms of their offer.
As a result, the club's president ordered that he be left out of their training camp this summer, and he was left to train alone in Casablanca, as a result.
He spoke with the club and a mutual agreement was reached to terminate his contract, leaving him free to join another side this summer.
Behind the Scenes: How Botafogo Unlocked the Ziyech Deal
Botafogo were aware of Hakim Ziyech's situation in his native Morocco and came in with a proposal to have him join them this summer.
The playmaker was open to the move but had his reservations with regards to the quality of pitches in Brazil and certain personal terms.
The deal required significant patience and flexible structuring from Botafogo’s leadership, as they worked to assure the left-footed star that there would be no problems on either front.
The club has prepared an initial two-year deal until 2028, and Ziyech was spotted at an airport on his way to Rio de Janeiro to complete the formalities of his transfer to the Brazilian outfit.
What Ziyech Brings to Botafogo’s Attacking Setup
Ziyech's signing is regarded by those at Botafogo as one that elevates the quality of their squad significantly.
The Moroccan's arrival provides Botafogo with elite technical vision, set-piece delivery, and creative threat from both the right wing and central attacking midfield positions.
Renowned for his trademark left-footed whipping crosses and long-range shooting, the former FIFA Club World Cup winner adds proven big-match experience to his new side's front line.
The club is also banking on him to help to mentor their youngsters, including the likes of Matheusinho, Lucas Emmanuel, and Kauan Toledo.
