Belgian side Lierse SK will make an approach to Ahli's veteran midfielder Ahmed Hassan if they secure promotion to the first division, owner Maged Sami said on Saturday. Hassan has enjoyed a highly-successful spell with Belgian giants Anderlecht, leading them to the league and cup titles between 2006 and 2008. He joined Ahli in the summer of 2008 after his contract with Anderlecht expired. The Egypt skipper made a huge impact at the Red Devils, playing a key role in helping them win a fifth consecutive league title last season. Lierse, who are owned by Egyptian businessman Sami, are looking to tempt him back to Belgian football. "I've already contacted Hassan regarding that possibility," Sami told FilGoal.com.
"We want to have a competitive squad next season. We will be looking to compete for the first-division title if we seal promotion." Hassan, Ahli's joint top scorer this season with seven goals, has been complaining of fatigue since leading Egypt to an unprecedented third successive African Cup of Nations title in January. He has recently been mostly confined to the bench, fuelling speculation that he fell out with Ahli coach Hossam Al-Badri. However, Hassan, who was voted the Nations Cup best player, insisted that he is rested upon his own request. He was tight-lipped over reports linking him with a move to Lierse, who lie second in the second-division league table, just one point behind leaders RAEC Mons with six matches to go. "If Hassan accepts our offer we will be honored. There are several leading clubs in Belgium, including Anderlecht, still interested in signing him," Sami added. Lierse's current squad boasts four Egyptian players in Mohamed Abdul-Wahed, Ahmed Samir, Mohamed Al-Gabbas and Sherif Al-Beyali.
