Raja Club Athletic nears deal for defender Marian Hoga

Raja Club Athletic is nearing a deal to acquire Marian Hoga, a defender from Romanian club CFR Cluj, as reported by Romanian media. Negotiations have reached an advanced stage, with the Moroccan club reportedly agreeing to a preliminary fee of approximately 350,000 euros. The player himself is reportedly open to the move, seeking a change of environment after a strained relationship with his current coach.

The potential signing addresses Raja's need to bolster its central defense. The team has seen departures, including that of Abdellah Khfifiy upon contract expiry, and faces the possible exit of captain Badr Banoun. Hoga, who holds both Portuguese and Romanian citizenship, is a 27-year-old left-footed center-back, a characteristic that could offer tactical flexibility.

Hoga brings experience from various European leagues, having developed his skills at Portugal's Belenenses academy before playing in Denmark, Romania, and Poland. This diverse background is seen as an asset for Raja's defensive line. The recruitment is attributed to Portuguese sporting director Matias Rogeiro, who is focused on building a more balanced squad for the upcoming season.

This potential transfer follows Raja's setback with Nabil El Aloui, whose move was canceled after failing a medical examination. Hoga is now considered a prime candidate to reinforce the Green Eagles' backline, with final administrative and medical procedures expected to finalize the deal soon.