Libyan side Al Ahli Tripoli have stepped up efforts to sign veteran winger Hussein El Shahat following growing uncertainty surrounding his future at Al Ahly SC, according to sources close to the negotiations.
The 33-year-old attacker has become one of the most closely watched contract situations at Al Ahly after rejecting the club’s latest renewal proposal, which reportedly offered him a two-year extension worth 20 million Egyptian pounds.
That development has opened the door for external interest, with Al-Ahli Tripoli emerging as one of the clubs most determined to secure his services during the upcoming summer transfer window.
According to informed sources, advanced discussions recently took place in Cairo between representatives of the Libyan club and El Shahat as negotiations intensified over a possible move.
The Libyan side are understood to view the Egyptian winger as a major addition ahead of next season, particularly with strong backing from head coach Hossam El Badry, who has previously spoken publicly about his admiration for the player.
“El-Shahat is a distinguished player, and he is among the names we are seeking to acquire, but he will not be easily let go by Al-Ahly of Egypt,” El Badry said in earlier television comments regarding the club’s recruitment plans.
Attractive proposal on the table
Sources indicated that Al-Ahli Tripoli have presented what has been described as an attractive financial offer in an attempt to convince El Shahat to move to Libya and become one of the team’s central figures for the new season.
However, despite the progress in talks, no final agreement has yet been reached between the two parties.
The player is reportedly taking additional time before making a definitive decision, with the situation still complicated by his ongoing discussions with Al Ahly over a possible contract renewal.
According to the same source, El Shahat has asked Al-Ahli Tripoli for a grace period until the end of next week in order to fully assess his options before committing to either side.
That delay is linked to another scheduled negotiation session with Al Ahly early next week, where club officials are expected to make a final attempt to persuade the player to remain in Cairo.
Long-serving Al Ahly career
El Shahat has been one of Al Ahly’s most experienced attacking players since joining the Egyptian giants in January 2019 from Al Ain FC in a deal reportedly worth five million US dollars.
Since arriving at the club, he has established himself as a regular presence in the first team and played a major role in several domestic and continental triumphs.
Over the course of his time with Al Ahly, El Shahat has made 301 official appearances, scoring 67 goals and contributing 62 assists across all competitions.
His experience, versatility and contribution in major matches have made him an influential figure within the squad, even as the club gradually transitions toward a younger generation of players.
Uncertain future ahead
The coming days are expected to determine whether El Shahat’s long association with Al Ahly will continue or whether the winger will begin a new chapter in Libya.
For Al-Ahli Tripoli, signing a player of his experience and profile would represent a significant statement of ambition ahead of the new campaign.
For Al Ahly, however, losing one of their most experienced attacking players could mark the end of an important era, particularly given the player’s long-standing contribution to the club’s domestic and continental success.
Until a final decision is made, El Shahat remains at the centre of one of the summer’s most significant transfer discussions involving Egyptian football.
