Youcef Douar: Algeria defender joins USM Khenchela on free transfer from ES Setif

Algerian centre-back Youcef Douar has joined USM Khenchela on a free transfer from ES Setif.

The 28-year-old, born in Oran, moves across Ligue 1 after leaving Setif at the end of his deal and has been added straight into Khenchela’s defensive options. The transfer was finalised on 20 July 2026 and sees the right-footed defender continue his career in the Algerian top flight.

Douar arrives with significant top-flight experience, having made 169 Ligue 1 appearances, as well as featuring in domestic cup competitions and the CAF Confederation Cup. Across all tournaments he has played more than 14,000 competitive minutes, underlining the level of continuity and durability he brings to his new club’s back line.

The defender joined ES Setif in 2024, also on a free, after progressing through Paradou AC, where he stepped up from the club’s U21s into the senior side in 2017. His consistent run of games in Algeria’s top division has helped maintain his market value at around €250,000 at the time of his move.

Standing at 1.80m and specialising at centre-back, Douar’s profile suggests he will be used primarily in the heart of defence as USM Khenchela look to strengthen their structure without paying a transfer fee.

Douar’s switch from ES Setif to USM Khenchela is a permanent free transfer within Ligue 1, completed ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.