The Columbus Crew have acquired forward Wessam Abou Ali as a Designated Player from back-to-back Egyptian Premier League champion Al Ahly Sporting Club for an undisclosed transfer fee. 

Abou Ali – who led Egyptian Premier League scorers in 2023-24 and recorded double-digit goals each of his two seasons with Al Ahly – will be added to the Black & Gold roster upon receipt of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate. The 26-year-old’s contract runs through the 2027 season with a Club option for 2028.

“Wessam is a special player whose journey speaks to his resilience, character and tireless work ethic, which are qualities we value at our Club,” said Crew general manager Issa Tall. “He is a proven goal-scorer who knows what it takes to help his team win. His clinical finishing, energy and charisma will strengthen our squad, and we are confident that he will thrive within our system.

Abou Ali posted 38 goals and 10 assists in 60 appearances across all competitions with Al Ahly. During his debut season, he amassed a league-best 18 goals to power Al Ahly to the 2023-24 Egyptian Championship and CAF Champions League titles. Last season, he registered 10 goals to guide the side to another league title, the 2024-25 Egyptian Super Cup and the CAF Champions League titles.

Born in Aalborg, Denmark, Abou Ali was granted a one-time federation switch by FIFA in March 2024 to represent Palestine. He made his senior debut on June 6, 2024 in a World Cup Qualifier against Lebanon and scored his first senior goal on Sept. 10 against Jordan. To date, Abou Ali has four goals in 10 appearances for the Palestinian National Team.