Ben Romdhane set for Al Shamal move as Al Ahly futures of Afsha and El Saai come into focus

Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane is close to leaving Al Ahly for Al Shamal in the Qatar Stars League, with the midfielder’s departure potentially opening the door for Mohamed Magdy “Afsha” and Omar El Saai to remain at the Egyptian club.

Al Ahly have reached a final agreement with Al Shamal over a permanent transfer for the 25-year-old Tunisia international, according to exclusive information published by Africa Foot.

A senior Al Ahly source told Africa Foot that the deal had been settled after the two clubs agreed all the details of the transfer. Al Shamal will reportedly pay $1.7m to sign Ben Romdhane, bringing his time with Al Ahly to an end after just one season.

Ben Romdhane joined Al Ahly in the summer of 2025 from Hungarian club Ferencvaros. He was recruited to strengthen the midfield ahead of the club’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, which was held in the United States.

During his only campaign with Al Ahly, Ben Romdhane played 31 matches in all competitions. He scored four goals and provided six assists, while helping the team win the Egyptian Premier League. He also featured in the club’s continental commitments.

The midfielder developed in the academy of Esperance before establishing himself as one of the leading midfielders in Tunisian football. His performances earned him a move to Ferencvaros, where he continued to impress domestically and in European competition, while also retaining his place in the Tunisia starting line-up.

Al Shamal believe they have secured a player with significant experience and outstanding technical ability who can strengthen their midfield for the coming season.

The Qatari club faced competition for Ben Romdhane’s signature. Qatar SC and a club from the Libyan league had also opened negotiations with the player in recent days, but Al Shamal completed the transfer after intensive discussions.

Ben Romdhane’s expected exit could also improve Afsha’s prospects at Al Ahly. Other reports have stated that the club’s management told the 29-year-old midfielder he would remain with the squad next season, following head coach Hussein Ammouta’s insistence that the player should continue at the club.

Afsha is also understood to be in line to travel with Al Ahly’s squad to Spain for their pre-season training camp. His expected inclusion would further strengthen the possibility of him staying, particularly with Ben Romdhane now nearing a move away.

El Saai’s position is less certain. The club has yet to make a final decision on the midfielder, with Ammouta having requested additional time before determining his future. The coach is expected to announce his decision in the coming hours.

El Saai is one of the players whose position at Al Ahly has attracted the most uncertainty. Al Masry have made a strong offer to sign him permanently, while Al Ahly’s management are also considering sending him out on loan.

Several options remain under consideration, but Ben Romdhane’s departure could give El Saai another opportunity to stay at Al Ahly. The club may require additional midfield players next season, although the final decision remains with Ammouta.