Al Ahly are closing in on the signing of Moroccan forward Sofiane Benjdida after negotiations with Maghreb de Fès reached an advanced stage, with the Egyptian giants hoping to complete the deal before the summer transfer window closes.
The striker’s future is expected to be decided within the next 72 hours as both clubs continue discussions over the final structure of the transfer.
Direct talks boost negotiations
Representatives from Al Ahly and Maghreb de Fès recently held their first face-to-face meeting after weeks of negotiations conducted through intermediaries.
The direct discussions are understood to have moved the deal closer to completion, although the two clubs are still working to resolve the remaining financial details.
Release clause remains sticking point
The biggest obstacle continues to be the transfer fee.
Maghreb de Fès are insisting that any agreement must match Benjdida’s $4 million release clause and have shown little willingness to reduce their valuation.
Al Ahly, meanwhile, are attempting to bridge the gap by proposing a deal with a lower upfront payment supplemented by performance-related bonuses.
The Egyptian club hopes that structure will satisfy both parties while allowing them to secure one of their priority attacking targets.
Ammouta outlines project
Away from the negotiations between the clubs, head coach Hussein Ammouta has reportedly spoken directly with Benjdida to explain Al Ahly’s sporting project and the role the striker would play if the transfer is completed.
The discussions are seen as part of the club’s efforts to convince the Moroccan international that Cairo is the right destination for the next stage of his career.
Europe still an option
Despite the progress in talks, the transfer has not yet been finalised.
Reports suggest Benjdida’s family still favour a move to a European league, leaving the player’s long-term future undecided.
The striker has attracted interest from several clubs following a string of impressive performances, making him one of the most sought-after Moroccan players in the current transfer window.
With negotiations entering a crucial stage, the coming days are expected to determine whether Al Ahly can reach an agreement with Maghreb de Fès or whether the deal collapses over the financial terms.
