Djamel Belmadi, now in his third stint at the helm of Qatari side Al Duhail, is reportedly set on securing the signature of Algeria’s breakout star Adil Boulbina as he begins shaping his squad for the upcoming season.
Boulbina, the top scorer in the Algerian domestic league with 18 goals, has become a central figure in the local football scene, drawing significant attention for his performances.
His rapid rise has not gone unnoticed by Belmadi, who, after returning to club management following his tenure as Algeria’s national team boss, is keen to bring the 22-year-old forward to Qatar.
According to reports in the Algerian media, Al Duhail have already submitted an offer believed to be in the region of €5 million to secure Boulbina’s services, with the proposed deal also including a lucrative personal contract.
The fee is aimed at buying out the final year of Boulbina’s current contract.
Boulbina is not short of suitors. In addition to Al Duhail’s strong interest, several European clubs are tracking the young forward.
Among those reportedly monitoring the situation are Belgium’s Club Bruges and Charleroi, Ajax in the Netherlands, Spain’s Real Betis, and French Ligue 1 outfits Brest and Marseille.
Yet, the financial terms offered by the Qatari club are said to have turned Boulbina’s head.
However, the potential move has triggered concern within Algerian football circles.
According to DZfoot, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has intervened, warning Boulbina’s representatives—particularly his father—about the implications of such a transfer, including the risk of future naturalisation attempts by Qatar.
This anxiety stems from precedent. Cases like Lotfi Madjer, the son of Algerian football legend Rabah Madjer, and Adam Belmadi, Djamel’s son, have set off alarm bells.
Apparemment Boulbina va rejoindre
Al Duhail 🇶🇦Il a accepté l’offre Qatarie
Le Paradou touchera 5 M €
Et Boulbina un gros salaire
C’est bien pour le Paradou mais apparemment le joueur n’a pas de motivation sportive
Si il signe la bas je ne parlerai plus de lui .
— Paradou Ac Talents (@Paradoutalents) June 11, 2025
Both were called up to Qatar’s youth teams, raising fears of long-term eligibility changes and talent loss for Algeria.
Despite Boulbina’s stellar form, he remains uncapped by Algeria’s senior national team, though he has featured for the domestic-based A’ side.
His omission has further fuelled speculation and unease, particularly in light of the FAF’s concerns about players being lured abroad and potentially switching allegiance.
As the transfer window approaches, all eyes are now on whether Boulbina will take the leap to Qatar—and whether Algeria can hold on to one of its most promising young talents.
