Italian club Genoa has started official negotiations with Saudi club Al-Ittihad to sign Albanian defender Mario Mitaj on loan, with an option to buy the player at the end of the season, according to Nigeria Football website.

The source stated that Genoa is seeking to finalize the deal during the current summer transfer window, and the Italian club hopes to bolster its defense with a young player with experience in European competitions.

According to the proposed details, Genoa aims to sign Mitaj on a one-season loan deal that includes a clause granting the club the right to permanently purchase the player after the loan period ends. Both clubs' managements are currently working on finalizing the details of the agreement, amid efforts to complete the deal before the transfer window closes.

Mitaj's career at Al-Ittihad: Mitaj (23 years old) joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2024 from Russian club Lokomotiv Moscow, and quickly secured a starting spot in the lineup under coaches Laurent Blanc and Sergio Conceição. The Albanian defender played 58 matches for Al-Ittihad in all competitions, scoring two goals and providing six assists, and contributed to the team winning the domestic double (Saudi Roshn League and King's Cup) in the season before last.

Expected return to Europe: The source stated that Mitaj's potential move to Genoa would mark his return to European stadiums after his stint with Lokomotiv Moscow. Genoa's interest comes as part of a strategy to strengthen the team's defensive line with a player who combines youth and experience. If the deal goes through, Al-Ittihad may have to restructure its backline, as Mitaj has become a key element since joining the Saudi club.

It is worth noting that negotiations between the two parties are still ongoing, with both sides seeking to finalize the agreement in time for Mitaj to join Genoa's preparations for the new season in the Italian league.

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