Paradou AC targeting Algerian goalkeeper Sami Tlemcani

Paradou AC are closing in on a potential deal to sign Algerian goalkeeper Sami Tlemcani as uncertainty continues over the future of first-choice stopper Mokhtar Ferrahi.

The 21-year-old, who was developed at Chelsea and later joined AEK Athens, is seeking a club where he can secure regular first-team football. His ambition is clear — to earn a place in Vladimir Petkovic’s Algeria squad.

Paradou, widely recognised for nurturing emerging talent, are reported to have made a firm offer to make Tlemcani their number one for the coming season.

The move would align with the club’s vision of maintaining stability in one of the most critical positions on the pitch while offering the player a platform to relaunch his career.

Beyond the pitch, Tlemcani’s story has attracted widespread attention due to his change of sporting nationality.

Born in Paris to an Algerian father and Moroccan mother, he represented Morocco at youth level and was called up to the senior squad during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.

However, in February 2023, he made a public declaration that he would henceforth play for Algeria.

The decision ignited heated debate, with critics in Morocco accusing him of opportunism, especially as he had previously expressed pride in representing the Atlas Lions.

Tlemcani rejected such claims, describing his switch as a heartfelt choice rooted in his Algerian heritage and childhood dream of wearing the national team’s green jersey.

He added that Moroccan officials, including goalkeeping coach Omar Harrak, had respected his decision without bitterness.

Should the move to Paradou materialise, it would represent more than just a transfer.

For the club, it would be a calculated step in their youth-focused development strategy.

For Tlemcani, it could be the opportunity to return to his roots and revive his international aspirations — hopes that have remained unfulfilled in recent years.

With the new season approaching, the coming weeks may determine whether Tlemcani’s next chapter begins in the Algerian Ligue 1, potentially opening the door to the national team he has long dreamed of representing.

EXCLU: Le Paradou AC a pris contact et a proposé une offre à Sami Tlemcani pour en faire de lui leur gardien numéro 1.

Pour rappel, Sami Tlemcani un recherche un projet qui lui offre du temps de jeu dans le but d’être sélectionné en équipe d’Algérie ???????? pic.twitter.com/at8J4aUII5

— Ilian (@kobiliann) August 9, 2025