Trabzonspor is determined to secure the long-term future of Congolese forward Simon Banza, with the Turkish side actively negotiating a permanent transfer with Portuguese club SC Braga following his impressive loan spell.
Banza, who has been a key figure for Trabzonspor this season, remains highly valued by the club, prompting efforts to turn his loan into a full transfer.
However, initial talks have hit a stumbling block after Braga rejected Trabzonspor’s opening bid, deeming the offer below their valuation of the 27-year-old striker.
Undeterred by the setback, Trabzonspor is preparing an improved bid, reportedly in the region of €10 million, as they aim to meet Braga’s demands and keep Banza at the Şenol Güneş Stadium beyond the current season.
Despite the club’s strong interest, financial limitations pose a significant challenge.
Trabzonspor chairman Ertuğrul Doğan highlighted the complexities surrounding the transfer during a recent press briefing.
“Banza at the moment, we have no initiative. Last year, when we loaned him, his club asked us for €20 million for the transfer.
These amounts are not figures that Trabzonspor can bear,” he stated, underlining the financial strain of meeting Braga’s high asking price.
Banza’s performances in the Turkish Süper Lig have not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from several clubs across Europe.
Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille is reportedly monitoring the striker’s situation closely and could re-enter the race for his signature in the upcoming transfer window.
Turkish rivals have also shown interest, potentially intensifying competition for the Congolese international.
Braga, aware of Banza’s rising stock, is firm on their valuation, reportedly exceeding €20 million, making the pursuit even more challenging for Trabzonspor.
The Portuguese outfit appears in no hurry to offload the striker for a cut-price deal, particularly amid growing interest from clubs with deeper financial resources.
For Trabzonspor, Banza’s impact has been undeniable. His physical presence, clinical finishing, and ability to influence games have made him a fan favorite and a vital part of the team’s attacking setup.
Losing him would be a significant blow, especially given the growing competition for his services.
With the summer transfer window approaching, Trabzonspor finds itself at a crossroads—balancing its ambition to keep Banza against the financial realities of the deal.
Should they fail to meet Braga’s valuation, the door remains wide open for other suitors to step in and secure the Congolese forward.
As negotiations continue, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining Banza’s future.
Whether Trabzonspor can overcome the financial hurdles or if another club swoops in with a higher offer remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Simon Banza’s next move will be one of the key storylines in the upcoming transfer window.
