Al Ahly has announced the signing of Moroccan star Achraf Bencharki on a free transfer after terminating his contract with Al Rayyan.

The Red Devils confirmed the deal through their official social media platforms, unveiling Bencharki as their latest reinforcement for the January window.

In a theatrical announcement, the former Zamalek forward sits in room decorated with Al Ahly trophies and declares, “Cairo has one color… Africa has one champion… Achraf Bencharki joins the Club of the Century.”

Bencharki, 30, previously enjoyed a successful three-year spell with Zamalek during which the forward had become a fan favorite. In his time with the White Knights, he won two Egyptian Premier League titles (2021, 2022), two Egypt Cups (2019, 2021), the Egyptian Super Cup (2020), and the CAF Super Cup (2020). He also played a pivotal role in leading Zamalek to the 2020 CAF Champions League final against his new club, Al Ahly.

According to Moroccan outlet le360 Sport, Bencharki will earn $1.5 million per season at Al Ahly. Of that, $1 million will be paid in foreign currency, while $500,000 will be provided in Egyptian pounds.

Furthermore, Al Ahly president Mahmoud El-Khatib reportedly played a key role in finalizing the deal, personally assuring Bencharki and his representatives that the club would cover the release clause stipulated in his contract with Al Rayyan, which required him to pay half the value of his contract, which is valued at $750,000, to terminate his deal.

The Moroccan forward’s signing is a boost for the Cairo giants’ front line, as they prepare for this summer’s Club World Cup, and navigate a busy schedule in the current season.