Several Egyptian defenders currently playing outside the country have entered Al Ahly’s considerations as the club searches for a new center-back during the upcoming January transfer window.
Hossam Abdel Maguid and Omar Fayed are among the names being monitored by the club’s football management. However, no official negotiations have started with either player or their representatives so far.
The defensive reinforcement file remains at the assessment stage, with Al Ahly reviewing a wide range of available options before deciding which targets should become priorities.
Mediator Contacts Hossam Abdel Maguid
A mediator has reportedly made contact with Hossam Abdel Maguid, the former Zamalek defender who is currently playing in the Portuguese league, to explore the possibility of a move to Al Ahly.
However, the player remains interested in continuing his professional career abroad for the time being, leaving his potential return to Egyptian football undecided.
Al Ahly Study Several Overseas Options
Al Ahly’s search for a new center-back is not limited to Egyptian players currently based abroad.
The club’s football management is considering multiple routes while preparing an expanded list of potential defensive targets. Each candidate will be assessed based on his technical qualities and ability to meet the coaching staff’s requirements before any formal negotiations begin.
Players Eligible for Palestinian Passports Also Considered
Al Ahly are also studying the possibility of signing players who could obtain Palestinian passports, which could allow them to be registered as local players under the applicable registration regulations.
This route could give the club an opportunity to add a new player without using an additional foreign-player slot, provided the relevant registration rules and requirements are met.
Al Ahly Step Up Scouting Operations
The club’s football management has intensified its scouting efforts in recent weeks while searching for players capable of strengthening the squad.
The monitoring process has included matches in the Gulf Cup, while Al Ahly’s scouting department continues to follow games in the Egyptian professional league to identify players who could enter the club’s transfer calculations.
Expanded Shortlist Before Formal Negotiations
Al Ahly are aiming to build an expanded shortlist of potential center-backs before moving into the formal negotiation stage.
The club’s priority is to identify a defender capable of making an immediate contribution while also meeting the coaching staff’s tactical and technical requirements in central defense during the second half of the season.
Are Hossam Abdel Maguid and Omar Fayed on Al Ahly’s shortlist?
Yes. Both players are among the defenders being monitored as potential options for the January window.
Has Al Ahly started official negotiations with Hossam Abdel Maguid?
No official negotiations have been launched with the player or his representatives so far.
Why is Al Ahly considering players eligible for Palestinian passports?
Because they may be registered as local players under the applicable regulations, potentially allowing the club to add a player without using an additional foreign-player slot.
Is Hossam Abdel Maguid interested in returning to Egypt?
He reportedly remains interested in continuing his professional career abroad at this stage.
What is Al Ahly’s objective in the January transfer window?
The club is working to create a broad shortlist before selecting a center-back who can provide an immediate addition and meet the coaching staff’s needs.
