Saudi Arabian football club NEOM has set its sights on Al Ahly forward Percy Tau as the club scrambles to secure a last-minute deal before the summer transfer window closes on Monday, September 2. The Saudi transfer market remains open for just a few more days, and NEOM is keen to finalize a move for the South African international after an earlier deal for Zamalek’s Ahmed Sayed Zizo fell through.
According to Egyptian sports journalist Omar Rabie Yassin, representatives from NEOM have already arrived in Cairo to engage in discussions with Al Ahly about a potential transfer for Tau.
The 29-year-old forward, who has a year remaining on his contract, could be on his way out of the Egyptian club amid ongoing tensions within the squad.
Al Ahly’s head coach, Marcel Koller, has reportedly informed the club’s management that Tau is no longer a part of his future plans, following what is believed to be a falling-out between the two.
This decision has sparked speculation about Tau’s future, with the player adamant about staying unless he receives the remaining salary due under his current deal.
The ongoing negotiations with NEOM come as a potential solution for both parties, allowing Al Ahly to offload a player no longer in their coach’s plans while giving Tau the opportunity for a fresh start in Saudi Arabia.
However, it remains unclear whether an agreement will be reached before the transfer deadline.
Meanwhile, South African powerhouse Kaizer Chiefs have long been admirers of Tau and are reportedly interested in bringing the forward back to the South African Premier Soccer League.
It is believed that Chiefs have initiated talks with Tau’s camp over a potential move, but they are not alone in their pursuit.
Moroccan champions Wydad Casablanca are also in the race for the talented forward, with head coach Rhulani Mokwena eager to bolster his squad with Tau’s signature.
Despite this interest from multiple clubs, Tau’s future remains uncertain.
His contract situation with Al Ahly has complicated matters, and any deal—whether with NEOM, Kaizer Chiefs, or Wydad Casablanca—will depend on the player’s willingness to negotiate his exit from the Egyptian giants.
Al Ahly, one of Africa’s most successful clubs, may face a difficult decision in letting go of a player who has contributed significantly during his time at the club.
Percy Tau joined Al Ahly in 2021 after stints with Belgian side Club Brugge and English Premier League team Brighton & Hove Albion.
Despite flashes of brilliance, his tenure in Egypt has been marked by inconsistent form and injury struggles.
The recent fallout with Koller has only added to the uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.
As the Saudi transfer window nears its close, all eyes will be on NEOM and their efforts to finalize a deal for Tau.
Whether the South African forward will make the switch to the Saudi Pro League or pursue opportunities elsewhere remains to be seen, but the coming days are set to be decisive in determining where his future lies.
مسؤلي نيوم السعودي يجتمعون مع احد مسؤولي النادي الاهلي بالقاهرة للتفاوض بشأن انتقال بيرسي تاو لصفوف الفريق بديلا لزيزو و الحسم خلال ساعات
— Omar Rabie Yassin – عمر ربيع ياسين (@omarrabieyassin) August 30, 2024
