Wilfried Kanga has officially completed his transfer from Dinamo Zagreb to KAA Gent, marking a return to Belgian football for the Ivorian international.
The 27-year-old forward was unveiled on Sunday evening by the Jupiler Pro League side, who confirmed he has signed a three-year contract running until June 2026.
While the club has not disclosed the transfer fee, reports suggest the deal is worth approximately €1.2 million.
Kanga, who previously featured for Standard de Liège during an earlier spell in Belgium, becomes KAA Gent’s first major signing of the summer transfer window.
Head coach Ivan Leko welcomed the new addition, describing him as a vital asset both on and off the pitch.
“I’m very pleased with Wilfried’s arrival,” said Leko in a statement published on the club’s official website. “He brings physical strength, pace, and a real presence inside the box.
Beyond his qualities as a forward, he’s also a leader in the dressing room. His mentality and experience will be crucial. He knows this league and knows how to compete at a high level.”
Born in France and developed in the Paris Saint-Germain academy, Kanga has carved out a career across several European leagues.
In addition to his stint at Standard de Liège, he has played for clubs including Angers in Ligue 1, Kayserispor in Turkey, Young Boys in Switzerland, Hertha Berlin in the Bundesliga, and most recently Cardiff City in the Championship.
Kanga joined Dinamo Zagreb in January 2024 and was initially under contract until December 2027. During his time in Croatia, he made 16 appearances in the domestic league, scoring three goals.
His time in Zagreb was short-lived, but his performances were solid enough to attract interest from KAA Gent, who are aiming to strengthen their squad ahead of a demanding campaign that includes Europa League competition.
With a current market valuation of €2.5 million according to Transfermarkt, Kanga brings not only goal-scoring ability but also valuable European experience to the Buffaloes’ attacking line.
His annual salary at Dinamo Zagreb was reportedly €700,000, though his financial terms in Belgium have not been made public.
Kanga’s move comes at a crucial time for KAA Gent as the club seeks to build a more competitive squad capable of challenging domestically and in Europe.
His ability to operate as a central striker or out wide offers Leko tactical flexibility, and his leadership qualities are expected to have an immediate impact in the dressing room.
For Kanga, the transfer marks a new chapter in a well-travelled career, offering him the opportunity to rediscover form in a league he knows and where he has previously impressed.
With his physical presence, pace, and versatility, KAA Gent will be hoping he can hit the ground running and contribute significantly to their ambitions in the upcoming season.
Je hebt een nieuw bericht 📲#COBW pic.twitter.com/XXqRtGZlX7
— KAA Gent (@KAAGent) June 22, 2025
