Brahim Hemdani says Algeria are in regular contact with dual nationals Khalis Merah and Yanis Massolin as the national team continues efforts to establish whether the two midfielders could represent the Fennecs.

Neither player has been included in Algeria’s squad for the two matches against Togo on 14 and 17 November, but their international futures remain under close consideration. Hemdani provided an update on both cases during a news conference on Thursday.

Asked about the work being carried out by the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), and whether the players were open to joining the national team, the Algeria coach confirmed that discussions were under way.

“We are in regular contact with the players. The two you mentioned are being monitored and we are doing everything necessary to understand their situation and, potentially, create the conditions to call them up to the national team,” Hemdani said.

Hemdani also revealed that he had watched both players in action last weekend, indicating that they remain part of the Algeria coaching staff’s plans.

The situation surrounding Khalis Merah appears to be developing positively. According to information from winwin, the father of the Olympique Lyonnais midfielder gave an initial agreement in principle after speaking with FAF president Walid Sadi.

However, Algeria are understood to be taking a measured approach. The federation would prefer to wait until the young player has secured more regular playing time at club level before moving forward with a possible call-up.

Yanis Massolin’s case has different complications. The Cagliari midfielder had already been monitored by the FAF during the previous international window, with his physical and technical qualities attracting the attention of the Algerian set-up.

Administrative procedures that had not yet been completed made a first senior international call-up more difficult, particularly in relation to the October gathering.

Hemdani’s latest comments confirm that Massolin’s file remains active, although they do not guarantee that the player will eventually choose Algeria or receive a place in the squad.

The coach did not provide a timetable for either player’s potential arrival. That caution suggests that, despite established contact, both the necessary administrative work and the process of persuading the players are still continuing.

For now, Merah and Massolin remain serious options for Algeria as the Fennecs consider ways to strengthen their squad in the coming months.