The Bafana Bafana striker Percy Tau is set for a medical in Qatar, signaling his imminent move to the league.
South African winger Percy Tau has a date set for his medical as he edges closer to a highly anticipated move to the Qatar Stars League, where he is expected to join fellow African football sensation Michael Olunga in one of the continent’s most lucrative competitions.
Tau, who currently plays for Egyptian giants Al Ahly, has reportedly landed in Doha, Qatar, ahead of his scheduled medical on Saturday, 11 January, at the renowned Aspetar Hospital for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.
The Bafana Bafana star's imminent transfer has been making waves, with speculation surrounding his next destination reaching fever pitch in recent months.
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Tau’s time at Al Ahly seems to be drawing to a close, as the club appears eager to cash in on the player before his contract expires in June 2025. His diminishing role in the team, combined with Al Ahly’s strategy to streamline their squad, has paved the way for the winger’s exit.
Reports suggest that several Qatari clubs, including Al-Khor, Al-Gharafa, and Qatar SC, were vying for Tau’s signature, but the 30-year-old appears to have settled on a move to the Middle East.
This development ends speculation linking him to South African powerhouse Kaizer Chiefs and Egyptian rivals Zamalek. Tau’s decision to head to Qatar highlights the growing allure of the league, which has gained prominence in recent years as a destination for top talent, including Kenyan striker Michael Olunga, who has been a standout performer for Al Duhail.
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Tau’s expected move is seen as a boost for the Qatar Stars League, which continues to attract high-profile players seeking competitive football and lucrative contracts.
His addition to the league will further elevate its profile in Africa and beyond, particularly as Olunga has already established himself as one of its marquee stars.
Back in Egypt, Al Ahly is bracing for life without Tau. The Red Devils, who recently suffered a rare 1-0 defeat to Algeria’s CR Belouizdad in the CAF Champions League, are navigating a challenging period.
They currently sit second in their group, trailing South Africa’s Orlando Pirates by a single point. The team faces another crucial clash on Saturday against Ivorian side Stade d’Abidjan, but they will do so without their full complement of players.
The absence of foreign stars, including Moroccan defender Achraf Dari, fullback Yahya Attiat Allah, and winger Reda Slim—out due to injuries and surgeries—has left Al Ahly short-handed. Tunisian fullback Ali Maaloul is also unavailable, as he awaits re-registration.
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Adding to their woes, local players like Mahmoud ‘Kahraba’ Abdel-Moneam, who is expected to depart in the winter transfer window, and injured wingers Taher Mohamed and Omar Kamal will miss the match.
Despite these setbacks, Al Ahly remains a formidable force and will look to extend their dominance in Africa’s premier club competition. Their recent loss to CR Belouizdad snapped a 27-match unbeaten run, a reminder of their resilience and ability to bounce back.