Al Ittihad Target Anderlecht’s Jan Carlo Simić in Bid to Beat Lazio

Al Ittihad are trying to sign young Serbian defender Jan Carlo Simić from Anderlecht. The club wants to finish the deal before rivals Lazio can act. Talks between the clubs are happening, with little time left before the Saudi transfer window closes.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Al Ittihad have started negotiations with Anderlecht for Jan Carlo Simić, a 20-year-old centre-back under contract until 2029. The Saudi club wants to move quickly because Lazio are aiming to bring Simić in by January 2026. Anderlecht reportedly want €10-12 million for the defender, who joined from AC Milan and has become known as one of Europe’s top young stoppers. The Belgian side have already signed defender Mihajlo Ilic on loan as possible cover for Simić’s departure. There is also reported interest from Germany’s RB Leipzig.

AL ITTIHAD’S STRATEGY AND SEASON SO FAR

This move comes soon after Al Ittihad acquired midfielder Mohamedou Doumbia from Royal Antwerp and winger Roger Fernandes from Sporting Braga, as the club continues its plan to strengthen their squad for the Saudi Pro League‘s season, balancing youth alongside experienced stars. Laurent Blanc’s side have had a mixed campaign so far, currently lying in sixth in the Saudi Pro League after six matches. They trail leaders Al Hilal by four points, and they are just two points from fifth-placed Al-Ahli. Injuries, including the recent absence of Karim Benzema, have influenced Blanc to seek further defensive stability and depth.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Talks are under pressure to finish before the Saudi transfer window expires on Thursday. Should the deal get over the line, Simić would join that squad on the hunt to return to the top of the division, with Al Ittihad’s next fixture coming up against Al Nassr, who hold a one-point lead over them in the table. For second-placed Pro League side Anderlecht, who are three points behind Club Brugge, the sale would provide funds but would also leave a gap in defence. Lazio, currently fourth in Serie A, will look at alternative options or hope to rekindle talks for Simić at a later date should a move to the Middle East collapse.