Mercato: A major reinforcement for Raja's defense

Raja Club Athletic makes a major splash ahead of the summer transfer window by bringing back one of its former stalwarts, Moroccan international defender Badr Banoun, who is a free agent after his contract with Qatari side Qatar SC came to an end.

According to sources close to the matter cited by Kooora, Banoun has given his verbal agreement for a two-year deal, pending finalization of some details before the official announcement.

The player, however, has set out clear conditions: strong financial guarantees, a commitment to regular salary payments, and the retention of the team’s key players.

A long-awaited return

At 31, Badr Banoun remains an iconic figure for the Casablanca-based club. He helped the Greens to several domestic and continental titles before venturing to Al Ahly (Egypt) and then Qatar SC, where he made 15 appearances this season (12 in the league and 3 in the cup).

This comeback comes as Raja navigates internal tensions, especially after criticism aimed at president Abdellah Birwaine following the departure of top scorer Houssine Rahimi to Al Ain (UAE), just after he clinched the 2024-2025 league top scorer title.

Defensive boost: Raja targets Daba Sougouba

At the same time, the club is exploring several options to strengthen its back line. According to Al Mountakhab newspaper, Raja is in advanced negotiations with Malian defender Daba Sougouba, currently at Djoliba AC.

He is strongly tipped to join Raja during the transfer window as part of the club’s squad rebuild, aiming to compete for top honors in the Botola Pro and African competitions. Several clubs are also interested in his athletic and technical qualities, but Raja appears to be in the lead.

Also read: Raja faces a storm: three key players uncertain, six on the chopping block!

Mohamed Rek |

Editorfr, ar, en

Mohamed Rek- sports content writer with over 10 years of experience creating football content in Arabic and French for platforms such as Foot Africa and Starafrica, combining accuracy, creativity, and audience engagement.