Negotiations for Al Shabab to sign Ayoub El Kaabi are advanced, according to the newspaper 'Al-Youm'. The report states that Al Shabab has had advanced discussions with both Olympiacos and El Kaabi's representatives and is preparing to sign him in the January transfer window. The move is at the suggestion of Al Shabab's Spanish coach, Imanol Alguacil, who has requested immediate reinforcement for the team's attack, according to reports.

Al Shabab, a club that is reportedly familiar with the 32-year-old Moroccan centre-forward Ayoub El Kaabi, has proposed an exchange to Olympiacos. The proposal involves Olympiacos retaining Podence, for whom an agreed purchase option of 4-5 million euros exists with Al Shabab, in exchange for El Kaabi moving to the Saudi team. This arrangement could create significant financial savings for Olympiacos, particularly because the Moroccan striker's contract is due to expire in six months. However, the decision for the club is not simple, as El Kaabi is regarded as a prolific goalscorer who significantly influences their attack. He has scored 12 goals in 14 league appearances this season. The Morocco international, who has 65 caps, has also been associated with clubs including Girona, Olympique Marseille, and Nantes. According to reports from December 2025, Olympiacos established a minimum asking price of €12 million and turned down a €5 million proposal from Nantes.