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Botafogo have moved forward in talks to sign former Ajax and Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech on a deal running until 2027. The Morocco star is set to follow the path taken by non-American icons Clarence Seedorf, Keisuke Honda and Salomon Kalou after members of the squad helped revive transfer discussions that had stalled.

Botafogo step up efforts to complete Ziyech signing

According to Lance, Botafogo have made a significant breakthrough in negotiations to bring in Morocco international winger Hakim Ziyech. The 33-year-old, who is currently with Wydad Casablanca, is now edging closer to a switch to the Brazilian side.

The SAF leadership at Botafogo is handling the process carefully, but considers the move to be at an advanced stage.

Botafogo want to bring the former Ajax and Chelsea player to Rio de Janeiro early next week for medical tests and to complete a contract that would keep him at the club until December 2027.

Players help revive talks after temporary setback

The transfer had looked close to being wrapped up after Ziyech accepted Botafogo's proposal and even recorded promotional content for his official presentation. He had initially been expected to attend Sunday's match against Palmeiras at the Nilton Santos Stadium.

However, a difference of opinion over the sporting project led Ziyech to pause the talks temporarily on Saturday.

Current Botafogo players then intervened to help solve the issue, with midfielder Danilo Pereira - a former Ajax team-mate of Ziyech - playing an important role in convincing the winger before he gave his final approval.

Ziyech adds to Botafogo's list of global stars from outside the Americas

Ziyech arrives with an established record, having scored nine goals in 16 appearances for Wydad Casablanca last season. He also played a major role in Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, and has earned 64 caps while scoring 25 goals for his country.

His move continues Botafogo's clear tradition of signing high-profile international stars from outside the American continent.

The Moroccan joins a line that includes Netherlands great Clarence Seedorf, Japan icon Keisuke Honda and Ivory Coast attacker Salomon Kalou.

Medical tests planned in Rio

With negotiations back on course, Botafogo are moving quickly to settle the remaining administrative aspects of the transfer.

Ziyech is expected to arrive early next week to undergo his medical examinations before officially signing his contract.

If he passes those tests, the winger will be added to the squad as Botafogo aim to bolster their attacking options for the current campaign.