Rising Iraqi Forward Inches Toward Al Ahly: A Winter Transfer Tale
16 January 2026
Transfer Interest: Al Ahly and the Erbil Striker
Karim Milem, a 21-year-old striker for Erbil SC, has reportedly received an official bid from Al Ahly, as the Egyptian giants pursue reinforcements during the current winter window.
Al Ahly continues to hunt young, technically gifted players who fit its long-term plans, with a focus on under-23 talent.
In comments carried by the Iraqi channel Al-Iraqiya Sports, Milem said, "Yes, Al Ahly sent an official bid, but the decision lies with the club administration and my father, coach Karim Qassim, who steers the course."
Konate: The Ivory Coast Link to Al Ahly
Konate has appeared 13 times this season for Espérance de Tunis, with one goal and one assist, and Al Ahly is keen to bolster its midfield options with a versatile youngster.
Meanwhile, Al Ahly has also been negotiating with Espérance de Tunis over Ivorian midfielder Abdou Rahman Konate, aiming to add a versatile young talent to the foreign quota.
In total, Konate has 49 appearances for Espérance across competitions, with three goals and three assists, and he has represented Ivory Coast at the African Nations Championship at age 19.
On the field, Konate is primarily a midfielder capable of covering multiple roles, and he remains an under-23 prospect.
At 21, Milem was born on January 8, 2001, keeping him eligible for the under-23 category if the transfer goes ahead.
Punchline: If this transfer falls through, at least his father will still have a tactical suggestion ready for the next family gathering. And yes, coffee is on the bench too.
Punchline: In football negotiations, the sharpest thing in the room isn't the striker's finishing, it's the rumor mill—silent but deadly accurate at predicting nothing for weeks on end.
