Mourinho rebuffs Al-Nassr’s attempt to sign Youssef En-Nesyri in January transfer window

José Mourinho, head coach of Turkish football club Fenerbahçe, has firmly rejected the idea of selling Moroccan international Youssef En-Nesyri to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr during the upcoming winter transfer window, despite an increased financial offer.

According to Turkish media reports, Fenerbahçe management did consider the proposal from Al-Nassr, which now stands at €32 million, a significant increase from the initial offer that was lower. While the club’s hierarchy was tempted by the prospect of a substantial profit from selling En-Nesyri, Mourinho is resolutely opposed to the move. The Portuguese coach views the 26-year-old striker as crucial for Fenerbahçe’s ambitions this season.

Since joining Fenerbahçe from Sevilla last summer for a reported €19.5 million, En-Nesyri has struggled to find his rhythm early in the Turkish Süper Lig season but has since regained form and impressed with his performances in recent matches.

This season, the Moroccan striker has made 19 appearances across all competitions, scoring 6 goals and providing 2 assists. His international career with Morocco has also been noteworthy, with 78 caps and 23 goals to his name.

Despite Fenerbahçe’s initial investment in En-Nesyri and the attractive financial return offered by Al-Nassr, Mourinho’s refusal to sanction the sale reflects his belief in the player’s importance to the team’s success in the second half of the season.

Given Mourinho’s stance, it is unlikely that Al-Nassr will be able to convince Fenerbahçe to part ways with En-Nesyri unless they significantly increase their offer. However, the Saudi club’s persistence could see them return with a revised bid in the coming weeks.

With En-Nesyri’s contract running through until the summer of 2029, Fenerbahçe remains in a strong position to retain their star striker for the foreseeable future.