Egyptian giants keen on Morocco’s CHAN captain

by Graeme Jackson

Thursday Jan 25, 2018. 14:00

Egyptian giants Zamalek and Al Ahly have been linked with a move for Raja Casablanca defender Badr Benoun, Morocco’s captain at the ongoing 2018 African Nations Championship.

The 24-year-old centre-back has caught the eye in leading the Atlas Lions into the quarterfinals and the Cairo rivals look set for a bidding war to secure his services.

According to Egyptian media reports, Zamalek were the first to inquire about the availability of Benoun, but Al Ahly have emerged as serious suitors.

The Red Devils sold Ahmed Hegazy to West Bromwich Albion last year, and his replacement Rami Rabiaa is currently sidelined with a long-term injury, leaving them in need of defensive reinforcements ahead of the 2018 CAF Champions League.

The 24-year-old is a fully fledged Moroccan international, having featured for the ‘senior’ team under coach Herve Renard, and he is a strong contender to be included in their 23-man squad for the World Cup in Russia.

Le 360 Sport reports that Raja have no intention of selling their leading players, but the Egyptian clubs have the financial muscle to prompt a change of mind.

Benoun, should he be sold, is expected to far exceed his current estimated value of $750,000 on the Transfermarkt website.