Fathi to join Al-Ahly

The 22-year-old former Ismailly player, who was regarded as one of the top teenage prospects in the world, failed to break into Bryan Robson's first team at Blades and will return to his homeland, albeit via a loan spell in Qatar on account of the closure of the transfer window in Egypt.

"Ahmed has been a bit unfortunate in that he was brought in by one management team and was part of their plans, but changes at the top often change players' situations," Blades chairman Terry Robinson admitted of the African Cup of Nations 2006 winner, who can play anywhere across the defence and midfield as well as at wing back.

"It's a bit of a shame for the lad, but Ahmed wasn't part of Bryan Robson's plans, but he has ability and goes back with our best wishes."

The player's agent, however, is not sure if such a move is possible as he claims Fathi signed a first-option clause with Ismailly, preventing him from playing for any other club in Egypt.

"I was surprised of this move," Ahmed Al-Rifaie told Egyptian TV.

"I knew about this deal only after Fathi had already agreed terms with Ahly. But the paper he signed with Ismailly in January can cause him problems."

Fathi only made three first-team appearances under Neil Warnock, who signed him for £700,000 last year. In August he allegedly refused a transfer to Al-Ahly's arch rivals Zamalek, stating a preference to remain in Europe.

Cairo giants Al-Ahly are arguably the biggest club in Africa and claimed third place in the World Club Championships this year.