Egypt’s Al Ahly Sporting Club have loaned defender Mohamed Hegazi to West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.
The deal is for one year and thereafter The Baggies will have an option to trigger a permanent transfer.
Hegazi, 26, left for Hong Kong soon after inking the deal to join Albion’s squad on duty at the Premier League Asia Trophy.
He is making a return to Europe after a low key stint with Fiorentina dogged with injuries.
The transfer follows Hegazi’s impressive performances at the 2017 African Cup of Nations in which Egypt finished runners-up and he was named in the team of the tournament, Albion said.
Albion chairman John Williams could not hide his joy to the club’s official portal, “We are delighted to add Ahmed to the squad.”
Head Coach Tony Pulis said: “We’re pleased he’s here, he’s a good addition. He’s got good pedigree and has played for some good clubs. Hopefully he’ll be a good signing for us.”
Hegazi is a mainstay in Egypt backline and has so far earned 39 caps.
He becomes the second Egyptian player to join the lucrative Premier League in the current transfer window after Mohamed Salah crossed over to Liverpool from Roma.
