Pape Meïssa Ba is on the verge of leaving Grenoble Foot 38 to join German club Schalke 04, marking a significant step in the Senegalese striker’s career.
With just six months remaining on his contract with the French Ligue 2 side, Ba has opted for a new challenge in Bundesliga 2, where he aims to make an immediate impact.
The 24-year-old forward has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe, including Standard de Liège in Belgium, Deportivo La Coruña in Spain, and an unnamed team in the English Championship.
However, Schalke 04 has emerged as the frontrunner after extensive negotiations with Grenoble.
The German club, currently 13th in Bundesliga 2, views Ba as a key addition to bolster their attacking options and improve their league standing.
According to Sky Germany, Ba is expected to arrive in Gelsenkirchen imminently to finalize his contract and begin training with his new team.
Ba has been one of the standout performers in Ligue 2 this season, scoring 10 goals and providing 2 assists in 18 appearances.
His consistent form has established him as one of the division’s most promising talents, earning him a reputation as a clinical finisher and a dynamic presence in the final third.
The striker’s journey to Europe began in 2019 when he left Dakar Sacré-Cœur in Senegal to pursue opportunities abroad.
He initially joined ESTAC Troyes before moving to Red Star and eventually settling at Grenoble.
Despite his success in France, Ba has expressed a desire for a fresh challenge, opting against extending his stay with the Isère-based club.
Schalke 04’s pursuit of Ba underscores their ambition to climb the Bundesliga 2 table and return to Germany’s top flight.
The club, which has a storied history in European football, is looking to rebuild after a period of financial and sporting difficulties.
Ba’s arrival could provide the attacking impetus needed to reignite their campaign.
For Ba, the move represents an opportunity to test himself in a new league and continue his development on a bigger stage.
“I am ready for this new challenge,” he said in a recent interview. “Schalke is a great club with a rich history, and I am excited to contribute to their success.”
As the transfer nears completion, all eyes will be on how Ba adapts to life in Germany and whether he can replicate his Ligue 2 form in Bundesliga 2.
For Schalke 04, the signing signals a step forward in their quest for stability and progress, while for Ba, it marks the next chapter in a career that continues to rise.
