Al Ahly have reached a final agreement to sell Tunisia midfielder Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane to Qatari club Al Shamal, a move that could create fresh opportunities for Mohamed Magdy “Afsha” and Omar El Saai.
According to exclusive information published by Africa Foot, Ben Romdhane will leave Al Ahly on a permanent transfer during the current summer window after the two clubs agreed all the details of the deal.
A senior Al Ahly source told Africa Foot that the transfer for the 25-year-old Tunisia international is now complete. Al Shamal will pay $1.7m to secure the midfielder, bringing an end to his spell in Cairo after only one season.
Al Ahly signed Ben Romdhane from Hungarian club Ferencvaros in the summer of 2025. He was brought in to strengthen the midfield ahead of the club’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
The midfielder made 31 appearances in all competitions during his only campaign with Al Ahly, scoring four goals and providing six assists. He also helped the club win the Egyptian Premier League and featured in continental competition.
Ben Romdhane came through the academy at Esperance Sportive de Tunis before establishing himself as one of the leading midfielders in the Tunisian league. His performances earned him a move to Ferencvaros, where he continued to impress domestically and in European competition, while remaining a regular in the Tunisia squad.
Al Shamal believe they have secured a player with considerable experience and the technical ability to strengthen their midfield during the coming season.
The Qatari club was not the only side interested in Ben Romdhane. Qatar SC and a club from the Libyan league had also held talks over a possible deal in recent days, but Al Shamal completed the transfer after intensive negotiations.
Ben Romdhane’s departure could have a direct impact on the futures of several Al Ahly midfielders, particularly Afsha.
Other reports claim that Al Ahly’s management has told Afsha he will remain with the club next season. Head coach Hussein Ammouta is understood to have pushed for the player to stay as part of his plans.
Afsha is also expected to travel with the Al Ahly squad to Spain for a pre-season training camp. His inclusion would further strengthen the likelihood that he will continue at the club, especially with Ben Romdhane now set to leave.
El Saai’s situation, however, remains unresolved. Ammouta has asked for additional time before making a final decision on the midfielder and is expected to announce his position within the coming hours.
The player is among those whose future has attracted the most debate at Al Ahly. Egyptian club Al Masry have made a strong offer to sign him permanently, while Al Ahly are also considering a loan arrangement.
Several options remain open for El Saai, but Ben Romdhane’s exit could give him a renewed chance to stay in the Al Ahly squad. The club may need additional midfield options next season, although the final decision will rest with Ammouta.
