Youcef Belaili edges closer to Esperance exit amid MC Alger return talks

Algerian international Youcef Belaili appears to be nearing the end of his time with Esperance as uncertainty continues to surround his future at the Tunisian giants.

With contract renewal talks making little progress, reports suggest the winger is now on the verge of sealing a return to Algeria.

The latest developments come as MC Alger intensifies efforts to bring the experienced attacker back to the club, although one major obstacle still stands in the way of completing the move.

MC Alger Pushes for Reunion

According to reports from Algerian outlet El Khabar, negotiations between Belaili and MC Alger have advanced significantly following discussions led by club chairman Hakim Hadj Rejem.

The report indicates that both sides are close to reaching an agreement, with Belaili favouring a return to the Algerian champions after spending the last two years with Esperance.

However, the transfer cannot be finalised until the player’s legal situation is resolved and a decision is reached regarding the sanction currently hanging over him.

Legal Battle Remains Key Hurdle

Belaili’s immediate future depends on the outcome of an appeal filed before the Court of Arbitration for Sport through his Tunisian lawyer, Ali Abbas.

The Algerian star was handed a one-year suspension by FIFA following a complaint lodged by his former club, Ajaccio. The French side accused the player of forgery in a case linked to financial benefits reportedly worth €380,000.

Belaili’s legal team remains optimistic that the sanction could either be suspended or overturned entirely, a decision that would allow him to resume his career without restrictions.

Continental Football Influences Decision

Although Mouloudia Oran expressed strong interest in signing Belaili and publicly stated their desire to bring him back next season, the player is reportedly leaning towards MC Alger.

A major factor behind that preference is the opportunity to compete in continental competitions next season. MC Alger can offer Belaili a platform in African club football, while Mouloudia Oran missed out on qualification after failing to secure a third-place finish in the league.

The prospect of returning to continental action appears to have played a significant role in shaping the player’s decision.

MC Alger Continue Squad Reinforcement

Beyond the pursuit of Belaili, MC Alger are also working to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign.

Club president Hakim Hadj Rejem has reportedly opened talks with US Chaouia striker Seriman Konate, who finished as the top scorer in Algeria’s second division. The forward has already given preliminary approval to join the club.

The move signals MC Alger’s ambition to build a stronger squad capable of competing on multiple fronts next season.

Hadj Rejem Set to Remain in Charge

The ongoing transfer activity also suggests that Hadj Rejem is likely to remain in his role as chairman of MC Alger’s board.

Recent reports indicate that officials from the company that owns the club rejected his request to transition into the position of sporting director during a recent meeting.

Hadj Rejem reportedly argued that the role would provide financial benefits similar to those enjoyed by sporting directors at clubs such as CR Belouizdad and USM Alger. He believes those benefits reflect the pressure and responsibility involved in managing one of Algeria’s most supported football clubs.

For now, however, his focus remains on strengthening the squad and potentially bringing Belaili back to MC Alger in what could become one of the biggest moves of the Algerian transfer window.