Ahli have decided to approach Ghazl Mahalla to acquire the services of defender Mahmoud Fathallah next season, the Egyptian champions said on Thursday. Ahli's football committee has given marketing director Adli Al-Qaeyi the green light to start the negations with Mahalla after consulting with coach Manuel Jose, the club said on its official website. Fathallah has performed very well with his club this season and attracted the attention of both Ahli and Zamalek, who are both suffering from problems in their backline. However, Zamalek's interest faded after club president Mamdouh Abbas signed Beshir Al-Tabie from Turkish outfit Rizespor and showed interest in Masri defender Karim Zekri, who is set to sign for the Cairo powerhouse. Ahli's football committee also decided to postpone decisions regarding local offers for some of the team's reserves and under-21 players. The Red Devils, who were crowned league champions for the third successive season earlier this month, conclude their league campaign on Friday when they face Ismaili.
