Algeria’s chances of signing Lyon midfielder Khalis Merah have improved after his father held talks with Football Federation of Algeria (FAF) president Walid Sadi.
The 19-year-old, who is eligible to represent Algeria, is reported by winwin to be keen to play for the North African country. His father is understood to have given an initial agreement following his conversation with Sadi.
Merah has won two caps for France Under-20s but has not been selected by the country since September 2025. He previously represented France at Under-16 and Under-19 level.
The FAF is not expected to rush the midfielder into making a decision. Instead, it is reportedly waiting for him to regain his place in Lyon’s starting line-up before progressing the matter further.
The latest development marks a change in mood after Algeria’s previous approach appeared to produce little progress. Last year, the federation had already contacted Merah’s father about involving his son with the country’s youth teams.
His response at the time was reportedly: “It is up to my son to decide.” That stance was understood to have cooled the FAF’s interest initially.
Merah emerged as one of Lyon’s notable players during the 2025-2026 season, becoming part of the first-team rotation. He made 32 appearances, including 22 starts, and recorded one goal and two assists.
Following those encouraging performances, Lyon moved to secure his future and is expected to extend his contract until 2029.
His development has slowed over the past year, however, after an ankle injury affected him several months ago.
The Meyzieu-born player has made only one appearance this season. He came off the bench against Auxerre in the league on 4 September, playing the final 23 minutes of a 3-1 victory.
Merah was again among the substitutes on Saturday but did not feature in Lyon’s 0-0 draw with Paris FC on the fourth matchday of Ligue 1.
The situation has left Algeria monitoring his club status while maintaining contact with his family. Although Merah has represented France at youth level, his eligibility means he remains an option for the FAF.
The federation’s preference is reportedly to allow him time to re-establish himself at Lyon before seeking a definitive commitment from the midfielder.