Senegalese striker Youssouph Badji has completed a transfer to Danish Superligaen side AGF Aarhus, signing a five-year contract that marks the next chapter in his career. The 22-year-old forward departs from Belgium’s Royal Charleroi Sporting Club, where he has spent the last two and a half years, to explore new opportunities in Denmark.
AGF Aarhus and Charleroi reached an agreement for Badji’s permanent transfer, bringing an end to his stint in Belgium.
After initially arriving at Charleroi on loan from Club Brugge in 2022, Badji eventually made the move permanent but struggled to make a significant impact.
In 66 appearances for the Belgian outfit, the Senegalese international managed just six goals and one assist, numbers he will be keen to improve in the Danish league.
The Ziguinchor-born player’s move to Denmark marks his fourth professional chapter, having previously played in Senegal, Belgium, and France.
Badji began his career with Casa Sports in Senegal, before making the leap to Europe with Club Brugge.
He also had a brief loan spell at Stade Brestois in Ligue 1, further adding to his experience in top-flight European football. Now, Denmark awaits the talented forward, offering him a fresh start in the Danish Superligaen.
In a statement released by Royal Charleroi, the club expressed gratitude for Badji’s time with them and extended their best wishes for his future.
“The staff, management, players, and the entire Sporting family warmly thank Youssouph for his time with us and wish him the best for the rest of his career,” read the message, acknowledging his contribution during his tenure at the club.
Badji’s career has seen him develop into a versatile forward, with pace and power to lead the attacking line.
However, his time at Charleroi saw limited returns in front of goal, a challenge he hopes to overcome at AGF Aarhus.
His move to Denmark comes at a time when Aarhus are performing well in the Danish Superligaen, currently sitting second in the league standings.
The Danish side will be looking to Badji to bolster their attacking options as they aim for continued success this season.
Internationally, Badji has represented Senegal at various youth levels, making 11 appearances for the U20 team and scoring four goals. His senior national team experience, however, remains limited.
He was called up once to Senegal’s A’ team for a 2020 African Nations Championship qualifier against Liberia, a match which Senegal won 3-0.
Despite playing the full 90 minutes in that fixture, Badji has yet to be recalled to the senior national team.
Badji’s move to AGF Aarhus presents him with a new opportunity to rejuvenate his career and prove himself in a new environment.
The Danish club will be hopeful that the young Senegalese striker can rediscover his form and contribute to their aspirations for domestic and European competition.
As Youssouph Badji embarks on his new journey in Denmark, both player and club will be eager for success, with the Senegalese forward ready to take on this latest challenge in his burgeoning career.