Mario Mitaj is increasingly close to a transfer to Genoa, with the Albanian national team defender expected to leave Al-Ittihad during this transfer window.
According to reports from Saudi Arabia, the Italian club is pushing to close the deal, while another development appears to have given a boost to the negotiations. Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper reports that Al-Ittihad have secured the services of left-back Fares Abdi, who is expected to take Mitaj's place in the squad.
The 27-year-old was chosen by Al-Ittihad's leaders among several alternatives to strengthen the left wing of defense, a move that is seen as a clear signal that the club is preparing for the departure of the Albanian footballer.
Mitaj has been linked with a move to Genoa for weeks, who see him as an important reinforcement for the new season. The approach of a replacement from Al-Ittihad is expected to facilitate the finalisation of the deal between the parties.
Fares Abdi, born in California, began his career in the United States before moving to Saudi Arabia, where he has played for Al-Wehda, Al-Qadsiah, Al-Fayha and most recently Neom. Last season, he played 34 games and recorded three assists.
With Al-Ittihad having already found his successor on the left wing of defense, Mario Mitaj's transfer to Genoa seems closer than ever and could be made official in the coming days.
