Wydad Athletic Club are in talks to sign veteran Moroccan striker Khalid Boutaïb as part of their summer rebuild. The 38-year-old is a free agent and could join the Casablanca-based side on a short-term deal, marking his first stint in Botola Pro.
Sources say Wydad president Hicham Ait Menna is leading efforts to secure the move, with current Wydad player Nordin Amrabat – a former national teammate – playing a key role in convincing Boutaïb to join.
Despite his age, Boutaïb is said to be keen on returning to competitive football, aiming to regain his scoring touch and end his career on a strong note. His most recent spell was with Pau FC in France. Over the years, he’s played for clubs in France (Ajaccio, Strasbourg), Turkey (Yeni Malatyaspor), and Egypt (Zamalek). He featured for Morocco at the 2018 World Cup and netted eight goals in 20 international appearances.
Boutaïb’s market value stands at €150,000 (1.6 million MAD), according to Transfermarkt.
Wydad have already signed midfielder Abdelghafour Lamirate on a three-year deal following his contract expiry at Olympique de Safi. Lamirate had attracted interest from rivals Raja and RS Berkane but opted for Wydad, who moved quickly to finalise terms.
The club is undergoing a significant squad overhaul following a disappointing campaign that saw them finish third in the league and exit the FIFA Club World Cup without a win. Twenty-one players are expected to leave as Wydad look to rebuild for the 2025–26 season, with experience and leadership seen as vital components for the revamped side.
