Percy Tau approaches a return to Egypt.. Three clubs enter calculations

Former Al Ahly forward Percy Tau could return to the Egyptian Premier League in January 2027, with three clubs reportedly interested in signing the South African international following his departure from Vietnamese side Nam Dinh.

The 32 year old is currently a free agent, with Ceramica Cleopatra, Al Ittihad Alexandria and Modern Sport all linked with a possible move.

However, despite growing speculation over his future, no club has officially confirmed negotiations or an agreement with the experienced attacker.

Read Also: Every two years or three years? The new CAF calendar raises questions about the future of the Africa Cup of Nations

Three Egyptian clubs linked with Percy Tau

Ceramica Cleopatra, Al Ittihad Alexandria and Modern Sport are monitoring Tau's situation ahead of the January transfer window.

The three clubs reportedly view the former Al Ahly winger as an opportunity to strengthen their attacking options without paying a transfer fee.

Tau's familiarity with Egyptian football could also work in his favour having spent several successful seasons in Cairo.

However, the extent of the reported interest remains unclear.

There have been no official announcements regarding contract offers, salary negotiations or an agreement with any of the three clubs.

Al Ittihad Alexandria: Agent contact, but no formal negotiations

A separate development emerged on Friday 30 October concerning Al Ittihad Alexandria.

Egyptian television presenter Khaled El Ghandour revealed that Tau had been offered to the Alexandria club through a players' agent.

However, he stressed that Al Ittihad had not initiated direct negotiations or formally requested the player's signature.

As reported, the final decision would depend on head coach Hamza El Gamal's assessment of whether Tau fits the team's requirements.

El Ghandour estimated the likelihood of the transfer at no more than 40%, although that figure represents his personal assessment rather than an officially established probability.

The clarification is significant because being offered to a club does not necessarily mean that the club has decided to pursue the player.

Why is Percy Tau available on a free transfer?

Tau has been without a club since leaving Vietnamese champions Thep Xanh Nam Dinh in May 2026.

The South African joined Nam Dinh in August 2025 following a short spell with Qatar SC, but his Asian adventure lasted less than one season.

As reported when Nam Dinh confirmed his departure, Tau registered one goal and four assists in 22 appearances across all competitions.

His previous move to Vietnam came after several months of uncertainty over his future.

Before joining the Vietnamese champions, Tau had been linked with clubs in South Africa, Morocco and Egypt.

Zamalek were among the Egyptian clubs previously associated with the winger.

However, the proposed move never materialised, in August 2025 that Zamalek had abandoned their pursuit amid concerns over the financial terms.

Could an Egyptian return revive Tau's career?

Tau's previous achievements with Al Ahly remain an important part of his appeal.

The South African joined the Cairo giants from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2021 and became a key figure in their attacking lineup.

He helped Al Ahly win consecutive CAF Champions League titles in 2023 and 2024, alongside several domestic honours.

His performances, continental experience and understanding of Egyptian football could make him an attractive option for clubs seeking an experienced attacker.

However, Tau's recent lack of competitive football represents a potential concern.

Any interested club would need to assess his physical condition, salary expectations and ability to regain regular playing time.

For the player, a return to familiar surroundings could offer an opportunity to rebuild momentum after an unsuccessful period in Vietnam.

What happens next in the Percy Tau transfer race?

The coming weeks could provide greater clarity about Tau's next destination.

Ceramica Cleopatra and Modern Sport remain among the clubs mentioned in recent reports while Al Ittihad Alexandria have yet to begin formal negotiations, according to El Ghandour.

A decision by Al Ittihad's coaching staff, a concrete contract proposal or direct discussions with Tau's representatives would represent a more significant development.

Until then, the former Al Ahly star remains available on the transfer market.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Ceramica Cleopatra

Modern Sport FC

Al Ittihad Alexandria

South Africa