Al Ahly Looks to Sign Free Agent Kouka After Departure of Abou Ali

Al Ahly is preparing to open formal negotiations with Ahmed Hassan Kouka, as the club looks to secure a replacement for Wessam Abou Ali, who is on the verge of completing a move to Major League Soccer in the United States.

With the team’s foreign player quota already full, Al Ahly has been actively seeking an Egyptian option to lead the attack next season. Kouka, a product of Al Ahly’s own youth academy, has emerged as the top candidate for the role. His interest in returning to the club, combined with his availability and vast experience, makes him an ideal solution for the club’s current needs.

The Red Devils' five foreign player slots are currently occupied by Achraf Dari, Achraf Bencharki (both from Morocco), Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane (Tunisia), Aliou Dieng (Mali), and Gredašek (Slovenia). This means any non-Egyptian addition would require releasing a foreign player—something the management prefers to avoid.

At 32 years old, Kouka is nearing the end of his contract with Le Havre, the French side he joined in January 2024 on a free transfer from Portugal’s Rio Ave. During the last season, Kouka made 16 appearances, scoring three goals and assisting once. Despite limited minutes, his performance showed that he remains a capable and experienced striker at a high level.