Al Wasl are preparing to make space in their squad for Hugo Viana, with Arabian Gulf League champions Al Ahli happy to let the Portugal midfielder leave on a one-year loan if they can find a replacement for Ciel before the transfer window closes.
The Cheetahs have only collected one point from their opening three games. An approach has been made to Viana, 31, with Wasl trying to negotiate the release of Brazilian striker Ederson who is on a season’s loan from Atletico Paranaense.
Brazilian winger Ciel is sidelined for the season by an ankle fracture. This has prompted Ahli to search for a direct replacement before October 2.
To facilitate any prospective arrival, Viana, who played last night against Ajman, would have to leave to open a spot in their four-player foreign quota as the club currently possess six.
Here's a montage of Hugo Viana in action including a goal from near the halfway line: