Egypt star Emam Ashour attracts Villarreal interest amid contract talks with Al Ahly

Villarreal have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Egypt international Emam Ashour, with the Spanish club opening negotiations over a possible move for the Al Ahly midfielder during the summer transfer window.

The La Liga side are understood to have identified Ashour as one of their priority midfield targets following his impressive displays for both club and country. Their interest comes as Al Ahly attempt to secure the player’s long-term future with a new contract offer.

According to reports, the Egyptian champions have offered Ashour a two-year contract extension that would include an annual salary of 35 million Egyptian pounds.

The proposal reflects the club’s determination to retain one of its most influential players amid growing interest from abroad.

Al Ahly’s efforts come after several clubs were linked with the midfielder, including Turkish side Konyaspor and Villarreal, who are now said to be taking concrete steps towards a potential transfer.

Italian journalist Luca Bendoni reported that Villarreal have placed Ashour high on their list of transfer targets following his recent performances for Al Ahly and the Egyptian national team.

Writing on X, Bendoni said: “Villarreal are interested in Emam Ashour, the Al Ahly midfielder who scored two goals for Egypt at the World Cup.”

The reported interest follows another productive spell for the midfielder, who has established himself as one of the leading performers in Egyptian football since joining Al Ahly in the summer of 2023.

During his time with the Cairo club, Ashour has made 105 appearances in all competitions. Across those matches, he has scored 32 goals and contributed 25 assists, underlining his influence in both attacking and creative phases of play.

His performances have also carried over to the international stage. Representing Egypt, the midfielder scored his first World Cup goal during the 2026 tournament and has now netted twice in 34 appearances for the national team.

Those displays have increased interest in his future, with Villarreal reportedly viewing him as a player capable of strengthening their midfield options ahead of the new campaign.

Despite the growing speculation, Ashour remains under contract with Al Ahly, who are making every effort to convince him to remain at the club by presenting an improved long-term deal.

Whether the Egyptian international remains in Cairo or completes a move to Spain is likely to become clearer as the transfer window progresses. For now, Villarreal’s reported negotiations and Al Ahly’s contract proposal have placed Ashour’s future firmly in the spotlight.