Ammouta pushes Al Ahly to make Ashraf Abada a defensive priority

Al Ahly have renewed their pursuit of USM Alger defender Ashraf Abada, with manager Hussein Ammouta urging the Egyptian club to complete a deal during the January transfer window.

According to exclusive information obtained by Africa Foot, Al Ahly have reopened negotiations for the Algeria international and are attempting to accelerate discussions in the hope of reaching an agreement next month.

The renewed approach follows a direct request from Ammouta, who considers the 27-year-old an important potential addition to his defence. The Moroccan coach is understood to value Abada’s technical ability, experience and versatility, with the player capable of operating in more than one position.

Representatives close to Al Ahly have re-established contact with Abada’s agents, while the club have also submitted a formal offer in an effort to persuade the defender to begin a new chapter in the Egyptian league.

The move underlines Al Ahly’s determination to strengthen their defence, with Abada now one of the club’s main targets for the winter market. The Egyptian club had already shown interest in signing him several months ago.

Abada began his career with El Eulma before joining ASO Chlef in 2021. His performances there helped raise his profile, and he moved to USM Alger in January 2026.

He has since established himself among the notable defenders in the Algerian league. His ability to play at centre-back or right-back would give Ammouta greater tactical flexibility, while his domestic experience and involvement with the Algeria national team are also regarded as valuable qualities.

Abada has made six appearances for USM Alger in the Algerian league during the 2026-27 season, playing 529 minutes. He has not scored or provided an assist.

However, completing the transfer could prove difficult. Abada’s contract with USM Alger runs until June 2029 and does not include a release clause allowing him to leave for a predetermined fee.

That means the Algerian club’s approval will be central to the negotiations. Al Ahly will need to reach an agreement with USM Alger before the defender can depart, despite the renewed efforts of intermediaries and the player’s representatives.

With Ammouta seeking defensive reinforcements and Al Ahly continuing to pursue the deal, the coming days are expected to determine whether Abada becomes one of the club’s new arrivals during the next winter transfer window.