Ahly's Palestinian striker Abou Ali draws Gulf interest after Club World Cup heroics

Mahmoud Elassal , Saturday 5 Jul 2025

Egyptian giants Ahly have reportedly received lucrative offers from Gulf clubs for Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali following his standout performances at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Wessam Abou Ali
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF is challenged by Wessam Abou Ali #9 of Al Ahly FC during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group A match between Al Ahly FC and Internacional CF Miami at Hard Rock Stadium. Photo courtesy of FIFA.

 

The 26-year-old forward scored three goals during the tournament, catching the eye despite Ahly’s early exit in the group stage.

Upon the team’s return to Cairo, Ahly were reportedly approached by Qatari side Al-Rayyan, UAE club Al-Wasl, and Major League Soccer outfit New York Red Bulls, all of which expressed interest in signing the prolific striker.

According to local media, Al-Rayyan have submitted a $8 million bid, while Al-Wasl offered $7 million.

However, sources close to the club suggest Ahly have set a $10 million price tag for their star striker.

Ahly sporting director Mohamed Youssef insisted last week that Abou Ali is not for sale, stating: “The team needs his contributions in the coming period.”

However, with interest growing and substantial offers on the table, the club's stance could be put to the test.

Since joining Ahly in January 2024, Abou Ali has quickly established himself as a vital figure in the squad.

He netted 18 goals in 19 appearances to win the Egyptian Premier League Golden Boot in his debut season.

Despite injuries hampering his most recent campaign, he managed 10 goals in 16 league matches, finishing just behind teammate Emam Ashour in the scoring charts.

Abou Ali’s most memorable moment came in Ahly’s final Club World Cup match, where he scored a perfect hat-trick in a thrilling 4-4 draw against FC Porto.

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