Al Ittihad eye Al Ahly star Emam Ashour in fresh move

Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad are reportedly considering a move for Al Ahly midfielder Emam Ashour as they continue to strengthen their midfield options ahead of the new season.

Despite already completing the signing of Senegalese midfielder Dion Lopy from Spanish side Almeria, as well as bringing in Mukhtar Ali from Al-Ettifaq, Al-Ittihad are still looking to add another quality midfielder to their squad, with Ashour remaining among the players on their shortlist.

According to reports, Al Ittihad have not yet submitted an official offer to Al Ahly for the Egyptian international. However, the Saudi club could make a proposal worth around $5 million for the midfielder if they decide to formally pursue his signature.

Al Ahly are not expected to easily sanction the departure of one of their key players. Ashour remains under contract with the Egyptian giants until the summer of 2028, while the club’s management has repeatedly expressed its desire to retain the core of the squad.

The situation could nevertheless change if Al-Ittihad table an exceptional financial proposal. Reports suggest that Al Ahly could consider selling Ashour if an offer in the region of $7.5 million is presented.

Al Ittihad’s reported interest is not the first attempt to sign Ashour during the current transfer window. Turkish club Konyaspor previously made an approach for the midfielder, but Al Ahly rejected the proposal and maintained their position that the player was not for sale.

Ashour has established himself as an important figure in the Al Ahly midfield since joining the club and has also become a regular member of the Egyptian national team. His performances have attracted interest from clubs outside Egypt, increasing speculation over his future.

Meanwhile, Al Ahly are also working to secure Ashour’s long-term future at the club. The club’s football management has reportedly opened negotiations with the player and his representatives over a contract extension.

The proposed agreement could see Ashour extend his stay by another two seasons, potentially keeping him at Al Ahly until 2030.

However, negotiations have yet to reach a final agreement. Ashour has reportedly asked for additional time to consider the proposal before making a decision, despite Al Ahly being prepared to improve his contract and place him among the club’s top earners.

For now, Ashour remains an Al Ahly player, but the reported interest from Al-Ittihad could add another layer of uncertainty to his future.

The Saudi club’s next move will be closely monitored, particularly if they decide to turn their interest into an official bid. Al Ahly, meanwhile, will be keen to retain the midfielder unless an offer arrives that the club considers too attractive to reject.

The transfer speculation comes as Al Ahly prepare for their high-profile friendly against Barcelona at Camp Nou in the Joan Gamper Trophy, with Ashour expected to remain part of the team’s plans as preparations continue for the new campaign.