Al Ahly strike €3m deal for Algerian forward Monsef Bakrar as Dinamo secure future clause

Egyptian giants Al Ahly SC have reportedly reached an agreement with GNK Dinamo Zagreb for the signing of Algerian striker Monsef Bakrar in a deal that could rise to €4 million.

Reports from Croatia indicate that the two clubs have concluded negotiations, with Dinamo set to receive a guaranteed €3 million transfer fee for the 25-year-old forward.

The agreement is also understood to include performance-based bonuses that could take the overall value of the deal to €4 million, while Dinamo have protected their interests with a 10 per cent sell-on clause should Bakrar secure a future move away from Al Ahly.

The transfer represents a major move by the Egyptian club as they continue to strengthen their attacking options ahead of upcoming domestic and continental competitions.

Bakrar to stay for Champions League qualifiers

Despite reaching an agreement, Bakrar is not expected to complete his move to Cairo immediately.

Dinamo Zagreb reportedly negotiated for the Algerian international to remain with the squad for their UEFA Champions League second qualifying-round tie against Swiss champions Thun.

Bakrar is expected to be available for both legs of the crucial European fixture, with the first encounter scheduled for July 21 in Switzerland before the return match in Zagreb on July 28.

The Croatian side had initially resisted Al Ahly’s advances, rejecting two previous offers before talks progressed into the final stages and resulted in an agreement.

Neither club has officially confirmed the transfer, but reports suggest the deal is now close to completion.

Algerian forward’s rise continues

Bakrar joined Dinamo Zagreb from Major League Soccer side New York City FC in August 2025, signing a long-term contract with the Croatian champions.

During his debut season in Croatia, the forward delivered a productive campaign, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists in 29 league appearances.

His performances helped increase his profile and attracted interest from Al Ahly, who view him as a valuable addition to their attacking department.

Before moving to Dinamo, Bakrar built his career across Europe and North Africa, representing Algerian club ES Setif and Croatian side Istra 1961 before earning a move to MLS in 2023.

MLS experience adds to Al Ahly’s options

Bakrar spent two seasons with New York City FC, making 70 appearances across all competitions and scoring 10 goals.

His physical presence, movement in the final third and ability to operate as a central striker made him an important attacking option for the American club before his return to European football.

The Algeria international’s potential arrival would add more depth and competition to Al Ahly’s forward line as the club targets success on multiple fronts.

The Cairo-based outfit, one of Africa’s most decorated clubs, continues to invest in quality additions, and Bakrar’s reported arrival would mark another significant acquisition as they prepare for a demanding season ahead.