Zamalek approve Juan Bezerra medical in UAE ahead of Shabab Al Ahli move

Zamalek have agreed to allow Brazilian forward Juan Bezerra to travel to the United Arab Emirates for a medical examination before a potential transfer to Shabab Al Ahli Dubai, a club source has told FilGoal.com.

Bezerra arrived in Cairo on Saturday evening after previously refusing to return for the club’s pre-season camp. The player had wanted to complete a move to Shabab Al Ahli Dubai.

“We have agreed to Juan Bezerra travelling to the UAE to undergo a medical examination ahead of his transfer to Shabab Al Ahli Dubai,” the Zamalek source said.

“If the Brazilian player successfully passes the medical, the agreement will be completed, the transfer procedures will continue and the deal will be officially announced.”

Zamalek had insisted that Bezerra return to Cairo before negotiations over his future could begin. He remains under contract with the Egyptian club for the next three seasons.

The source also confirmed that Shabab Al Ahli Dubai had increased its offer for the player following further discussions between the two clubs, Bezerra’s lawyer and his agent.

“A new meeting took place in the past few hours between the club, Juan Bezerra’s lawyer and his agent,” the source said. “It was confirmed that Shabab Al Ahli Dubai had raised its offer to $5m, with the payment method changed to instalments over a maximum period of six months. Zamalek will receive a large part of the fee immediately after signing.”

Zamalek’s approval of the transfer remains subject to two main conditions, according to the source. The first was Bezerra’s return to Cairo to complete negotiations.

“The second condition is securing the maximum financial benefit, with Zamalek receiving the $5m transfer fee as well as 20% of the value of any future sale of the player,” the source added.

Zamalek also want the UAE club to cover the 20% sell-on percentage owed to Bezerra’s former club, Oleksandriya of Ukraine. That amount is valued at $1m from the transfer, while Shabab Al Ahli Dubai must also pay the solidarity contribution.

With those conditions included, the total value of the deal is expected to be close to $7m.

Zamalek have played five matches since the start of the season without Bezerra, who had not returned to Cairo during that period.

The Brazilian featured in 44 matches in all competitions last season, scoring eight goals and providing 12 assists. He won the Egyptian Premier League with Zamalek but lost the CAF Confederation Cup final with the club after a penalty shoot-out.