Egypt’s Zamalek to sign Moroccan winger Mohammed Ounajem – reports

Egypt’s Zamalek will complete signning Moroccan winger Mohammed Ounajem from Wydad Casablanca to strengthen their squad after once again failing to dethrone Ahly in the Egyptian Premier League, Egyptian and Moroccan reports said.

The 27-year-old is likely to arrive in Cairo on Tuesday to finalize the deal, which may also see Zamalek’s Congolese striker Kabongo Kasongo, who spent the last six months on loan at Saudi side Al-Wehda, head to Wydad.

Ounajem has been one of the key players for Wydad in recent years, playing an instrumental role in steering them to the African Champions League title in 2017.

He also won with the club two Moroccan league titles.

Zamalek are desperate to reinforce their frontline after some injuries as well as the sudden departure of key winger Mahmoud Kahraba, who sought to unilaterally rescind his contract, cost them dear in the latter stages of the season.

Having won the Confederation Cup for their first African triumph since 2003, Zamalek were also seeking to clinch the Egyptian league title for the first time in four years.

They looked well-equipped to do so, leading the table for most of the season as holders Ahly stumbled.

However, while Ahly made some high-profile signings in January, Zamalek only landed Moroccan striker Khalid Boutaib, who could not prove his worth.

The lack of depth in Zamalek’s squad left them vulnerable in the crucial part of the season, allowing Ahly to bridge an eight-point gap and pip them to the title.

The White Knights have been active in the transfer window, signing another Moroccan forward in Achraf Bencharki, who was Ounajem’s teammate when Wydad won the Champions League.

They also acquired the services of Dakhleya winger Islam Gaber and are seeking to sign Ismaily goalkeeper Mohamed Awad.

Source: Ahram Online