Egyptian champions Ahly tied down Abdallah El-Said to a new deal on Tuesday, ending speculation over the future of the veteran playmaker who reports suggested had mulled the prospect of making a shocking move to cross-town rivals Zamalek.
With his contract expiring at the end of the season, El-Said was reportedly reluctant to extend his deal after Ahly had made it clear they could not afford to meet his financial demands.
But they have eventually reached an agreement, although Ahly did not reveal how much El-Said would earn over the next two seasons - the duration of his new deal. The 32-year-old will now stay at the club until 2020, putting to bed reports linking him with a move to Zamalek.
"This was my desire from the very beginning. The delay was out of my hands but everything is sorted now," El-Said said in a video message on Ahly s official website.
The news comes just one day after another of Ahly s key players, versatile defender Ahmed Fathi, also penned an extension to his contract, which was also due to expire at the end of the season.
Both men were instrumental in helping Ahly win the Egyptian Premier League with six matches to spare on Monday, securing the title for a third consecutive time and a 40th overall.
El-Said joined the Red Devils from bitter foes Ismaily in 2011 but used to live in the shadow of iconic playmaker Mohamed Abou-Treika. However, he assumed the playmaking role following Abou-Treika s retirement in late 2013.
He has won four Egyptian league titles, two African Champions Leagues, a Confederation Cup and an Egyptian Cup among other minor accolades since his arrival.
El-Said scored 67 goals and created 54 others in 227 appearances with Ahly in all competitions.
