Zamalek have not opened Ahmed Fattouh contract talks, says source

A source close to Ahmed Fattouh says Zamalek have not begun negotiations over a new contract for the left-back, despite reports suggesting discussions had taken place.

Fattouh’s current deal with Zamalek is due to expire at the end of the current season. However, the source told FilGoal.com that neither the club nor the player’s representative had been approached about an extension.

“Zamalek have not opened the renewal file with the player or his agent. All the figures being circulated are incorrect, and Fattouh has not asked for any specific amounts to renew his contract,” the source said.

The comments directly reject reports about the financial demands allegedly being made by the 27-year-old as he approaches the final months of his agreement. According to the source, no formal proposal has yet been discussed with either Fattouh or his agent.

The source added that there had been a conversation involving John Edward, who was previously Zamalek’s sporting director, but said it was informal and did not develop into negotiations.

“Some time ago, John Edward, the former sporting director, spoke verbally with Fattouh’s agent without going into any details,” the source said.

Despite the lack of formal talks, Fattouh would be open to remaining at the Cairo club if Zamalek decide to start negotiations in the coming period.

“If Zamalek open negotiations with Fattouh in the coming period, the player has no problem renewing his contract and is waiting for the officials to open this file with him,” the source added.

Fattouh has also previously attracted interest from Europe, although that offer did not lead to a move before the start of the season. The source said Zamalek rejected the proposal and that the player accepted the club’s decision.

“Fattouh received one European offer before the start of the season, but Zamalek rejected it and the player accepted the decision,” the source said.

The source also denied that Fattouh had held discussions with any other Egyptian clubs, while reaffirming that the defender would welcome the opportunity to extend his stay with Zamalek.

“There have been no negotiations by Ahmed Fattouh with any Egyptian clubs, and the player welcomes renewing his contract with Zamalek,” the source concluded.

Fattouh therefore remains under contract with Zamalek until the end of the current campaign, with formal discussions over his future yet to begin. The player’s camp says he is prepared to consider a renewal, but is waiting for the club’s officials to initiate the process.