APOEL showed interest in Hakim Sahabo, a 21-year-old Rwandan international defensive midfielder. Sahabo is not part of the plans of AEK coach Marko Nikolic. It had appeared that the defensive midfielder would join Rapid Vienna on loan. However, AEK later provided a clarification that a loan to the Austrian club was not possible, stating the reason was that the transfer window in Austria had closed. The club stated that it is continuing to seek the best solution for Sahabo and that its aim is for him to join a team where he will be a starter, preferably at a club abroad. Sahabo's contract with AEK is valid until the summer of 2029. The player has 13 caps and one goal for Rwanda. He joined AEK from Standard Liège in February 2026 for a fee that was reported to be €1.5 million. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is estimated at €1.5 million.