Asani seeking Esteghlal departure amid war: Report
Albanian winger Jasir Asani is desperate to terminate his contact with Persian Gulf Pro League club Esteghlal, Varzesh3 reported, citing several South Korean media outlets.
Following recent reports about Moroccan Munir El Haddadi’s request to part ways with the Tehran Blues, Korean sources claim Asani has also expressed interest in returning to the K-League due to the ongoing instability caused by U.S. and Israeli actions targeting Iranian territory, which have led to the suspension of football competitions in the country.
South Korea's Inter Football reported that Asani, who joined Esteghlal last year from Guangzhou FC, has returned to his homeland and is already in contact with several Korean clubs. Other outlets echoed these claims, calling the potential move “exciting,” yet pointed out two major obstacles: the player remains under contract with Esteghlal, and financial considerations may complicate any transfer since most K-League teams have completed their signings and Asani is expected to seek a high salary.
Another Korean outlet stated that Asani’s representatives have even reached out to Lee Jong-hyo, the head coach of Suwon Samsung, though foreign-player quota limits make such a move highly unlikely at the moment.
Asani, 28, has been one of Esteghlal’s standout performers this season. After joining the Tehran club for around €1 million, he racked up 13 goals and four assists in 29 matches, establishing himself among the most prolific players in the Iranian top flight. His attacking contribution and consistency have earned praise from fans and analysts alike.
If the reports of a possible departure prove accurate, Esteghlal could face a significant setback in its domestic league and cup campaigns, losing one of its most influential offensive options. Neither the player nor the club has yet commented officially, but the coming days are expected to reveal whether Asani will indeed pursue a return to the Korean club football or continue his spell in Tehran.