Al-Ahli Tripoli have launched one of the most ambitious transfer campaigns seen from a Libyan club in recent memory, bringing in a string of experienced players from across Africa and Europe as they prepare for the 2026/27 TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup.

The Tripoli outfit, guided by Egyptian coach Hossam El Badry, have targeted virtually every area of the squad in their push for a first continental trophy — a prize that has eluded them despite considerable domestic success.

Mayele headlined as the marquee arrival

The most talked-about addition is striker Fiston Mayele, who arrives from Egyptian football having competed at the summit of African club competition. His signing gives El Badry a proven forward capable of influencing matches at the highest level on the continent.

South Africa international Fagrie Lakay has also crossed over from Egyptian side Ceramica Cleopatra, bringing pace and versatility to the attacking line. Completing the frontline reinforcements, Mostafa Shakshak has made his move permanent after Al-Ahli Tripoli triggered the purchase clause in his loan deal from Egyptian club ENPPI.

Recruitment stretches well beyond Egypt

Al-Ahli Tripoli's scouting has extended across the continent. Mohamed Khalil has arrived from Libyan rivals Al-Akhdar, while Jean Claude, formerly of Sudanese club Al-Hilal, adds further depth to El Badry's options.

In a notable piece of business, the club have secured the return of Libyan player Omar Al-Harik from Scottish side East Fife. Hussein Dahiri has also signed from Algerian club USM Alger, bolstering the squad with continental experience from North Africa's top league.

The breadth of that recruitment reflects a deliberate strategy: to build a squad equipped to handle different opponents, climates, and conditions across what could be a lengthy continental campaign.

Established talent already on the books

Al-Ahli Tripoli's ambitions are underlined further by the calibre of players already at El Badry's disposal. The squad includes former Pyramids midfielder Blati Touré and former Esperance de Tunis winger Hamdou Elhouni — two players with substantial experience at both club and international level.

Ishaq Yakubu has also joined from Egyptian side National Bank of Egypt in a deal reported to exceed $500,000, while midfielder Mamadou Lamine Camara provides yet another option in what is shaping up to be a richly stocked squad.

The path ahead in the Confederation Cup

Al-Ahli Tripoli are set to open their Confederation Cup campaign against KMKM of Zanzibar in the first preliminary round, with opening legs scheduled from September 4–6 and return matches from September 11–13. Should they advance, they will meet the winners of the tie between Ethiopia's Welwalo Adigrat and Sudan's Hilal Al-Sahel.

The second preliminary round is set to begin from October 16–18, with the return legs played from October 23–25.

Despite being among Libya's most decorated domestic clubs — winners of the Libyan league title two seasons ago and the Libyan Cup last season — continental glory has so far proved elusive. The scale of their summer investment makes it clear that simply participating is not part of the plan.