USM Alger reshape attack as winter transfer window opens

USM Alger have begun their winter rebuild up front by parting ways with Liberian striker Emmanuel Ernest and moving to secure promising Ivorian forward Dramane Kamagate from FC San Pedro.

Ernest, 24, joined in the summer as an attacking reinforcement expected to add cutting edge in front of goal, but he ultimately fell short of expectations and struggled to make a decisive impact.​

In an official statement, the club confirmed that his contract had been terminated by mutual consent, stressing that the separation respected all contractual commitments and wishing the player success in the rest of his career. This decision is part of a broader strategy to rebalance the attacking department and free up a spot for a profile deemed more in line with the team’s ambitions.​

USMA have reportedly set their sights on Kamagate, an Ivory Coast Under-20 international, and are ready to buy out his contract for 550,000 euros. Known for his pace, depth runs and efficiency in the final third, he is viewed as one of the emerging attacking talents in Ivorian football, with negotiations said to be at an advanced stage pending administrative formalities.

This comes after the recent departure of midfielder Salim Boukhanchouche to CR Belouizdad, underlining the Algiers club’s intent to refresh key areas of the squad ahead of the season’s second half.