Ahly close on Ismaily striker Ahmed Ali

Egyptian newspaper Al-Ahram has revealed that Ahly are close to landing Ismaily striker Ahmed Ali after reaching an agreement with the player. According to the report the Egyptian champions are just waiting for Ismaily to name a new board to finalise the deal that will be worth LE8 million ($1.2m). The 25-year-old hitman has attracted the attention of various clubs following his outstanding performance this season with Saudi Al-Hilal, where he played since last January on a six-month loan deal from Ismaily. Despite speculations tipping the player for a permanent move to Al-Hilal, the Saudi giants decided not to take the option when compatriots Al-Qadisiyah stepped up their interest in hiring him. Ahly’s Portuguese coach Manuel Jose Da Silva is eager to strengthen the Red Devils' frontline following the poor scoring rate last season.