Al Ahly midfielder Emam Ashour is back on Al Ittihad’s radar as the Saudi club assess potential reinforcements ahead of the winter transfer window.
According to Saudi newspaper Al Weam, Al Ittihad are reviewing the Egypt international’s situation before deciding whether to submit a formal offer to Al Ahly, potentially reviving a move first explored last summer.
Ashour featured among the Saudi club’s summer targets, but their interest did not produce an agreement. He ultimately remained at Al Ahly, who announced on 26 August that he had extended his contract until 2030.
Al Ittihad are seeking additions to help reverse a downturn in results, following a 1–1 draw with Abha in Matchweek 12 of the Saudi Pro League and a 4–1 home defeat to the UAE’s Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite. Ashour would offer midfield mobility and an ability to make runs into scoring positions.
The renewed interest coincides with his absence from Al Ahly’s recent matches. He missed the games against Uganda’s Kitara, Modern Sport and Al Mokawloon Al Arab after last appearing in the 3–3 draw with El Qanah, prompting debate over his fitness and place in the team.
In a statement clarifying his situation, Al Ahly said: “Emam Ashour is training regularly and with full commitment, and he is not suffering from any injury.”
The club added: “The player’s absence from matches is for footballing reasons.” The clarification followed reports that the midfielder had been experiencing adductor pain.
Ashour has made four Egyptian Premier League appearances this season, totalling 242 minutes without a goal or an assist. Those figures underline his limited involvement compared with the prominent role he has held during previous spells with the team.
He joined Al Ahly from Denmark’s Midtjylland in summer 2023, following a brief spell abroad after leaving Zamalek. With his contract running until 2030, any potential move to Al Ittihad would require the Egyptian club’s approval and an agreement on the terms of his departure.
