Algeria international Mehdi Merghem completes Dundee United transfer

Algeria international Mehdi Merghem has secured a move to Scottish Premiership side Dundee United, ending a difficult spell at Bastia and beginning a new chapter in his career following the French club’s relegation.

The 28-year-old attacking midfielder has signed a two-year contract with the Scottish side after an unsettled period that saw him represent four different clubs in just two seasons.

Merghem’s latest transfer offers him the opportunity to rebuild his career after a turbulent run since departing Guingamp in the summer of 2024.

His journey began with a six-month spell at Portuguese club Farense before he returned to Algeria to join USM Alger.

The midfielder then completed a move to JS Kabylie last summer in a deal reportedly worth close to €300,000. He was brought in as part of the club’s efforts to strengthen its squad, including filling the void left by players such as Kouceila Boualia.

Merghem quickly adapted to life at JS Kabylie and established himself as an influential member of the team.

His performances also earned him recognition on the international stage. He became part of Algeria’s A’ national team under coach Madjid Bougherra and featured in the African Nations Championship (CHAN), further enhancing his reputation.

However, his progress took an unexpected turn when he opted to leave for Bastia in France’s Ligue 2.

The move failed to deliver the outcome he had hoped for. After only six months at the club, Bastia’s campaign ended in disappointment with relegation to France’s third division, leaving Merghem searching for a fresh opportunity.

That opportunity has now arrived in Scotland.

With the assistance of his Algerian-British agent, Riad Djellab, the attacking midfielder has completed a transfer to Dundee United, where he will continue his career in the Scottish Premiership.

The move represents a significant chance for Merghem to put recent frustrations behind him and establish himself in a new league.

Despite experiencing several transfers in a short period, the Algerian midfielder has continued to attract interest thanks to his experience across France, Portugal and Algeria, as well as his appearances for the national A’ team.

Now settled on a two-year deal at Dundee United, Merghem will hope his latest move provides the stability that has been missing over the past two seasons and allows him to rediscover the form that earned him international recognition before his difficult spell at Bastia.