Ali Gabr: West Bromwich Albion sign Egyptian defender
Gabr joins the Premier League club on loan from Egyptian side Zamalek with the option of a permanent deal at the end of the season.
West Bromwich Albion have signed Egypt centre-back Ali Gabr on loan from Giza-based club Zamalek until the end of the season.
According to the Premier League's official website, after the stipulated loan period, the Baggies will have the option to make the transfer permanent for a fee already agreed between the clubs.
The 29-year-old defender will wear the number 16 shirt and will team up with centre-back compatriot Ahmed Hegazi, who joined the Premier League side in July 2017.
"I'm here to help the team"
Speaking to WBA.co.uk, Gabr, who has never played outside of Egypt, said that he’s excited to join West Brom.
"I'm here to help the team and do my job. I'm very happy and excited to be here," he said.
Speaking about the Egyptian, the Baggies’ technical director, Nick Hammond, commented: "He's a player that we first identified at the Africa Cup of Nations where he played alongside Ahmed.
"We've continued to follow his progress since then and saw a good opportunity to do a deal in this window.
"The structure is the same as for Ahmed - it's a well-structured deal for the club. Ali is strong, dominant in the air and he's got good pace as well. This is a great opportunity for him and we're delighted to have him here."
West Bromwich Albion are currently in the Premier League’s relegation zone with 20 points from 24 matches, three points beneath 17th placed Stoke City.
The Baggies’ next match will be as visitors against EPL leaders Manchester City.