Al Ahly in advanced talks to appoint former Benfica manager | OneFootball

Ahly closing in on appointment of ex-Benfica boss

Photo: Official Benfica website

Egyptian giants Al Ahly are in advanced negotiations with former Benfica manager Bruno Lage over the vacant head coach position.

The Portuguese mentor has been unattached after he was recently sacked by the Liga Portugal heavyweights following a shock defeat to Qarabag in the first round of the UEFA Champions League.

Lage was initially said to be reluctant on taking up a project in Africa despite his desire to swiftly return to the dugout.

However, the Red Devils’ insistence and improved financial offer worth € 4.8 million per season from the initial € 3.5 million, was enough to convince the 49-year-old tactician to negotiate.

Sources have confirmed the ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers boss is holding out for € 5 million per season and is keen on bringing along five technical team members.

Moreover, the two parties are working on finalizing an agreement on performance-related bonuses and compensation details in the event of a mutual separation before the contract lapses.

An insider close to the matter revealed to this publication that Ahly are optimistic about reaching an agreement on personal terms with Lage.

The Egyptian champions currently sit in sixth place in the Egyptian Premier League standings, with one game in hand ahead of the Cairo derby against Zamalek SC on Monday, 29 September.