Mainz want Anwar El Ghazi to help pay for his replacement despite German side terminating the contract of former Aston Villa striker over a pro-Palestine post on social media

The bitter legal dispute between Anwar El Ghazi and Mainz has escalated after it emerged the Bundesliga side are set to seek financial damages from the former Aston Villa star to pay for a new striker.

El Ghazi and Mainz are locked in a legal feud after the German side terminated the Holland international’s contract after he made pro-Palestine social media posts as the Israeli/Hamas conflict erupted.

There has been a major debate in Germany about freedom of speech with regards to El Ghazi’s situation.

The 28-year-old attacker is suing Mainz – but the club have made a counter claim against their former player.

A conciliatory legal tribunal was held last week, but didn’t result in a resolution meaning a final hearing will be held in June.

The Bundesliga side confirmed the move after El Ghazi’s reiterated his position on Instagram

El Ghazi responded to the termination of his contract with a post on Instagram stories

And Mail Sport understands part of Mainz’s legal argument, in their position as the defendant, states that they reserve the right to seek further damages from El Ghazi so the club can finance the signing of a new forward as his replacement.

Even though it was Mainz who initiated the sacking, the club claim that because they signed El Ghazi in September 2023 on a two year contract, their inability to use the forward has created a sporting challenge.

Mainz claim they are entitled to financial damages as a result.

In supporting their claim, Mainz have cited the fact they are in a relegation battle as a reason why they will look to sign a new forward this month to improve their chances of staying up.

With that in mind Mainz are ready to seek damages from El Ghazi to help towards the expense of any transfer related outgoings this month.