Valencia drop interest in Al Ahly midfielder Aliou Dieng

Spanish club Valencia CF have reportedly ended their pursuit of Malian midfielder Aliou Dieng despite earlier progress in negotiations over a potential transfer.

According to the Spanish network COPE, the club’s sporting management has decided to close discussions regarding the Al Ahly SC midfielder, who had been identified as a key option to strengthen Valencia’s defensive midfield position.

The decision comes as part of a broader shift in strategy under the club’s new management structure led by football executive Ron Gourlay. The new leadership is reportedly working to reshape recruitment plans as Valencia prepares its squad for the 2026 to 2027 season with a different technical vision.

As part of this long term approach, the club has already moved in the transfer market by confirming the signing of Dutch defender Justin de Haas, whom Gourlay described as an elite player capable of strengthening the team’s future prospects.

In recent public remarks, Gourlay explained that the club is focusing on identifying and securing emerging talents early to maintain a strong competitive edge. He added that Valencia are currently exploring alternative options to replace the Dieng target with a player who better fits the club’s evolving technical plans.