According to Saudi media outlet Okaz, Sunderland's sporting director Florian Ghisolfi confirmed that Al-Ittihad has contacted Sunderland to discuss the possibility of signing 21-year-old Moroccan right-winger Shamseddine Talbi. The player himself wishes to join Al-Ittihad, but no agreement has been reached between the two clubs yet, and Sunderland has not received an official offer.

Ghisolfi stated in an exclusive interview with Okaz: "Al-Ittihad did contact us about signing Talbi, but there is no agreement yet because we have not received an official offer. For them, this could be a great opportunity because Talbi is a high-level young player with exceptional talent, but I don't know if this deal will ultimately happen."

Regarding Talbi's own stance, Ghisolfi revealed that the Moroccan international has been impressed by Al-Ittihad's project and wishes to complete the transfer.

Ghisolfi said: "Talbi wants to join Al-Ittihad. His agent told me that the player approves of their project. However, if the transfer fee offered is not appropriate, the club will not allow him to leave."

Ghisolfi also revealed that Talbi had previously received offers from RB Leipzig, Marseille, and Fiorentina, but the player chose to reject them all.

He said: "Shamseddine previously received offers from Leipzig, Marseille, and Fiorentina, but he rejected those offers. There are also some reports about Galatasaray's interest in him, but I don't know how serious their interest is."

The 21-year-old made 28 appearances for Sunderland in the Championship last season, accumulating 1,564 minutes played, with 4 goals and 2 assists.

Talbi's current contract with Sunderland runs until June 30, 2030. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value stands at €25 million.

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