Sporting secure Morocco Under-17 defender Zekri as Senegal goalkeeper Diaw joins Al Shabab

Africafoot’s 26 August 2026 news feed is headlined by a series of moves involving African players, including Moncef Zekri’s transfer from KV Mechelen to Sporting Portugal and the confirmed departure of Senegal international Mory Diaw for Saudi Pro League side Al Shabab.

The transfer of Zekri to Sporting Portugal has now been finalised, with the Lisbon club agreeing a deal with KV Mechelen for the 17-year-old left-back. The move, which was officially announced this week, will see the Morocco Under-17 international sign a long-term contract running until June 2029.

That agreement includes an €80m release clause, underlining Sporting Portugal’s commitment to a player regarded as one for the future. Zekri is set to leave Belgium for his first professional experience abroad and will be incorporated directly into the club’s first-team squad after arriving in the Portuguese capital.

Several major European clubs had followed the defender’s situation closely throughout the summer, according to Africafoot, which had previously reported the development exclusively.

Senegalese arrivals at KF Orikum

Albanian club KF Orikum are also preparing for the new season with two additions from Senegal.

The club’s attacking options have been strengthened by the arrival of Pascal Lopy, who previously played for Diambars. Lopy has signed a three-year contract with KF Orikum, giving the Albanian side a long-term addition in the final third.

The midfield has been reinforced by Babacar Gningue. The Senegalese player has previously represented Guediawaye FC and Avenir Dakar before making the move to Albania.

Unlike Lopy’s agreement, the length of Gningue’s contract has not been disclosed by KF Orikum. The two arrivals nevertheless give the club further Senegalese options as it prepares for the new campaign.

Diaw completes Saudi move

Mory Diaw’s departure is now official after the Senegal international agreed to continue his career in Saudi Arabia with Al Shabab.

The 33-year-old goalkeeper spent only one season with Le Havre AC. During that campaign, he lost his position as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper before deciding on a change of direction.

Diaw’s move adds another Senegal international to the group of players representing the country in the Saudi Pro League this season. Known as a Lion of Teranga, he will now begin a new chapter with Al Shabab after leaving French football.

The developments form part of Africafoot’s live coverage of African football, which also tracks transfer rumours, confirmed deals, records and other news connected to African players.