Columbus Crew Revives Talks with Al Ahly over Wessam Abou Ali | OneFootball

Positive breakthrough reported after stalled transfer negotiations between MLS side and Egyptian giants

Columbus Crew Revives Talks with Al Ahly over Wessam Abou Ali

Negotiations between Columbus Crew & Al Ahly regarding the transfer of Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali have seen major breakthrough according to reports.

Talks Previously Stalled

Talks'd reached standstill in recent weeks due to what Al Ahly labeled as "unconvincing offers" from the American side. Mohamed Youssef Al Ahly’s sporting director had publicly confirmed that Columbus had failed to meet the club's valuation of the player.

New Progress in Sight

However Adam Watani the intermediary representing Columbus Crew, revealed to Egyptian outlet FilGoal that progress has been made:

"There have been positive developments & flexibility in the last few hours. We’re working to bridge the gaps & reach agreement between Al Ahly & Columbus Crew for Abou Ali"

Rejected Offers & Renewed Hope

Earlier bids from the MLS club ranged from 5.25 million dollar to 7.5 million including 1 million in performance based bonuses and 10% resale clause , all of which were turned down by Al Ahly. Watani who had previously expressed frustration over stalled talks has now shifted to more optimistic tone.

Interest Sparked by Club World Cup Heroics

Columbus’s interest escalated after Abou Ali’s standout performance at the Club World cup where he netted hat trick in thrilling 4 - 4 draw with Porto marking him as one of the tournament's surprise stars.

Left Out of Al Ahly’s Tunisia Camp

Amid the ongoing transfer saga, the striker was excluded from Al Ahly’s pre season camp in Tunisia reportedly due to his absence from fitness tests and medical checks as well as unexcused absences from training and recovery sessions.