Arouca let 22‑year‑old Egyptian centre‑back Omar Fayed slip away by not triggering the purchase clause in his 2025‑26 loan. The player, still under contract with Fenerbahçe until 2027, returned to Turkey and is now linked with Kocaelispor.

Why didn’t Arouca activate the clause?

The club’s board concluded that the €1.2 million fee to make the loan permanent did not fit the 2026‑27 budget. Moreover, manager João Pedro Sousa has not cemented Fayed in the starting XI, preferring local options such as João Paulo and Tiago Silva. The decision was confirmed at a board meeting on 24 June, where financial impact and the need to strengthen the left flank were discussed.

What is Omar Fayed’s background?

Fayed joined Arouca in the summer of 2025 on loan from Fenerbahçe until 30 June 2026. In the 2025‑26 Primeira Liga he featured in 18 matches, scored once and helped the side finish 12th. He also earned five caps for Egypt’s U‑23 side, netting two goals. His performances attracted Turkish clubs, especially Kocaelispor, which aims to bolster its defence for the 2026‑27 campaign.

What can Kocaelispor offer?

Kocaelispor, which ended the 2025‑26 Süper Lig in 9th place, officially announced interest in Fayed on 27 June. According to sporting director Mehmet Yılmaz, the club is ready to meet the €1.2 million clause and proposes a four‑year contract with an annual salary of €800 000. The deal includes a €5 million release clause, a tempting prospect for a player seeking stability.

How does this impact Arouca ahead of the next window?

Fayed’s departure leaves room for two centre‑backs in Arouca’s squad. The club already has veteran João Carlos (30) and youngster Tiago Ribeiro (19) who could see more minutes. The board indicated it will target a cheaper defender, possibly a Portuguese full‑back from the Segunda Liga, to balance the books before the market reopens in July.