USM Alger has bolstered its squad with the addition of two new winter recruits, Algerian striker Riyad Benayad and Franco-Algerian midfielder Mehdi Merghem.
Benayad, who has been recovering from an injury sustained in May 2024 while playing for ES Tunis, arrives after a loan spell at Morocco’s Raja Casablanca earlier this season.
Despite limited action due to his injury, the 26-year-old forward brings valuable experience, having represented Algeria twice at international level, scoring a goal against Iran in a 2021 friendly.
Benayad, a product of Paradou AC’s youth system, has signed a contract with USM Alger for one renewable season.
Meanwhile, Merghem, 27, joins the Algerian club from Portugal’s SC Farense, where he has had limited game time, making just 13 appearances this season.
The attacking midfielder, trained in France, has had a varied career, with previous spells at Châteauroux, Guingamp, and Nancy.
Known for his creative playmaking abilities, Merghem was also pursued by other Algerian clubs, including JS Kabylie, but ultimately opted to join USM Alger, where he has committed to a contract lasting until June 2027.
These additions follow the arrival of Ahmed Khaldi from Kuwaiti side Al Arabi, who joined USM Alger about a month ago, strengthening the team further.
With these reinforcements, the club is aiming to bolster their squad for the remainder of the season, as they look to compete domestically and internationally.
