Al Ahly have opened formal negotiations with Club Africain to sign Libyan attacking midfielder Ali Youssef during the current summer transfer window.
The 24-year-old has become one of the most sought-after talents in North African football following a standout season in the Tunisian top flight.
Since joining Club Africain in 2023, Youssef has impressed with his technical ability, pace, and sharp vision in the final third. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Al Ahly now moving decisively to secure his services.
Originally developed at Ittihad Tripoli, Youssef made a name for himself in the Libyan Premier League, where his creativity and dynamic playing style earned him recognition as one of the country’s brightest footballing prospects.
His transition to Club Africain marked a significant step in his career, providing a platform to showcase his talents at a higher level.
In just one season in Tunisia, Youssef has featured in 25 competitive matches, scoring four goals and registering six assists.
His ability to consistently influence games from midfield has made him indispensable to Club Africain’s attacking structure, while also catching the attention of scouts beyond Tunisia.
Al Ahly, known for their ambition on the continental stage, are keen to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming CAF Champions League campaign.
The club sees Youssef as a valuable addition capable of injecting creativity into their midfield—a department that has been under review following recent seasons of inconsistent attacking output.
While the Tunisian club is aware of growing interest in Youssef, they are understood to be open to negotiations if the financial terms are favourable.
However, they are also aware of the player’s growing importance and may seek to include performance-based bonuses or future sell-on clauses in any potential deal.
For Al Ahly, the timing is crucial. With rivals also looking to reinforce ahead of the new season, finalising a deal for a player of Youssef’s calibre would signal clear intent.
It would also reinforce their strategy of investing in emerging North African talent with proven experience in top-tier competition.
Youssef’s camp is reportedly open to a move, provided it allows him to continue his development in a more competitive environment.
Joining one of the most decorated clubs in Africa could present him with the opportunity to play at the highest level on the continent, as well as under the pressure and expectations that come with wearing the red shirt of Al Ahly.
As negotiations continue, the transfer could become one of the most notable moves within North African football this summer.
Whether or not a deal is finalised, Ali Youssef’s rise from local leagues in Tripoli to continental attention illustrates his trajectory—and the growing strength of football talent emerging from Libya.
