Esperance Tunis close to sealing deal for Moroccan defender

Esperance Tunis have entered into official and advanced negotiations with the management of COD Meknès to sign defender Karim Bounagat during the current summer transfer window, as part of their efforts to strengthen their defensive line ahead of the new season.

Reports have revealed that the Tunisian club has placed the Moroccan defender among its top defensive options, and it is looking to finalize the deal as soon as possible in preparation for the local and continental challenges awaiting the team "Esperance Tunis".

According to reports from Moroccan media, Esperance Tunis have made an official offer to COD Meknès to sign Karim Bounagat, with negotiations between the two parties reaching an advanced stage, amid a clear desire from the Tunisian side to finalize the agreement in the coming days.

Bounagat is 25 years old and is known for his ability to play in multiple positions within the backline, which makes him a suitable option to bolster Esperance Tunis's defense and grant the coaching staff greater tactical flexibility.

Esperance Tunis are studying the possibility of activating the release clause included in the Moroccan defender's contract with COD Meknès, a step that could allow them to secure the player's services directly by paying the amount specified in the contract.

This option could shorten negotiations between the two clubs, especially if an agreement on the financial terms of the deal cannot be reached, as activating the contractual clause would be sufficient to complete the transfer process according to the stipulated conditions.

COD Meknès are trying to keep their defender.

Meanwhile, the management of COD Meknès has moved to retain the services of Bounagat by presenting a new offer that includes improving the terms of his contract and increasing his salary, in an attempt to convince him to continue his journey with the Moroccan team.

The player's desire to pursue a professional experience outside the Moroccan league and move to a club competing at both local and continental levels could give Esperance Tunis an advantage in the race to sign him.

Bounagat's ambition to experience a new challenge with Esperance Tunis, alongside the official offer from the Tunisian club, could push negotiations towards a conclusion in the coming period, pending the completion of final procedures and the official announcement of the deal.