Iraqi defender Akam Hashim joins Zaho in deal worth over 1.7 billion dinars

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Premier League club Zaho has signed Iraq national team and Al-Zawraa defender Akam Hashim on a one-year contract covering the 2026–2027 season, the club's management said. The agreement is worth approximately 1.7 billion Iraqi dinars and includes a residential villa and a private vehicle for the player throughout the contract period. Hashim will receive an upfront payment of 800 million dinars and is scheduled to be presented to the media on Tuesday before joining Zaho's training sessions. The 25-year-old had been linked with a move to Porto in Portugal, which did not materialize, prompting Zaho to open advanced talks with the player on July 11. The club's initial offer stood at around 1 billion dinars before the final terms were agreed. Hashim will continue his career at Zaho after his stint with Al-Zawraa. His performances at the most recent World Cup had drawn interest from several European clubs, though those transfers did not come to fruition.