Mohamed Amine Tougai: Algeria defender linked with Al-Ahli move from Esperance Tunis

Algeria centre-back Mohamed Amine Tougai, currently with Tunisian champions Esperance, is being linked with a move to Libyan Premier League side Al-Ahli. The 26-year-old defender is under contract in Tunis until 30 June 2027, meaning any deal would require the Libyan club to reach an agreement with Esperance rather than negotiate a free transfer.

Tougai has been a mainstay at Esperance since arriving from NA Hussein Dey in January 2020, a move that initially cost the Tunis club around €200,000. His market value is now estimated at €1.3m, a figure that is likely to form a reference point in any talks over a fee. Al-Ahli’s interest comes with the defender established in North African football and with extensive experience in continental competition.

A right-footed centre-back standing at 1.86m, Tougai has built his reputation in the CAF Champions League, where he has made more than 50 appearances and contributed important goals from the back. This season he has featured in the 2025-26 edition of the competition, scoring twice in seven outings. Domestically, he has been part of the Esperance side that has dominated Tunisian football, including last season’s league title.

Tougai’s honours also include an Arab Cup win with Algeria in 2020-21, underscoring his standing at international level. For now he remains an Esperance player with a year left after this season on his deal, leaving the Tunisian champions in a strong position should Al-Ahli decide to firm up their interest.