French-Ivorian striker Antoine Baroan joins Rapid Bucharest on three-year deal

Antoine Baroan has officially completed his move to FC Rapid Bucharest, sealing a three-year contract with the Romanian club on Tuesday evening, July 8.

The French-Ivorian forward arrives from Swiss side FC Winterthur for a reported transfer fee of €400,000. His contract with Rapid will run until the summer of 2028.

The club confirmed the signing via its official communication channels, marking a swift conclusion to negotiations that had been in progress for several days.

Baroan, 25, brings with him a wealth of experience across European leagues. A product of the Chamois Niortais youth academy in France, the striker later showcased his abilities in Switzerland’s Super League and the Bulgarian efbet Liga. His arrival in Bucharest represents the latest step in a career that continues to gather momentum.

Speaking to Rapid Bucharest’s in-house media following the announcement, Baroan expressed enthusiasm about joining the historic Romanian side.

“I’m very happy to be playing for Rapid. It’s a club with a great history and passionate fans,” he said. “I’ve seen the atmosphere at home games online, and I can’t wait to play at Giulești and give my all for the team.”

Baroan’s recent form underlines his attacking capabilities. In the first half of last season, he made 23 appearances for Winterthur, finding the net five times and registering three assists.

In the latter half of the campaign, he joined Bulgarian champions Ludogorets Razgrad on loan, where he added two goals and two assists in just seven matches.

The forward’s versatility and goal-scoring instincts have steadily boosted his market value. According to Transfermarkt, his current estimated worth stands at €800,000—double the amount Rapid reportedly paid for his services.

Baroan now becomes part of a Rapid squad aiming to solidify its status in Romania’s top flight and potentially challenge for honours. His addition is expected to strengthen the team’s attacking options and inject fresh energy into the forward line.

His career journey has already seen him adapt to a range of footballing environments, and Rapid’s management is hopeful that this blend of international experience and ambition will translate into consistent performances on the pitch.

The transfer also reflects Rapid Bucharest’s ongoing efforts to build a competitive team with both domestic and European aspirations. Baroan’s signing comes as part of the club’s broader recruitment strategy aimed at reinforcing key positions ahead of the new season.

With pre-season preparations underway, Baroan is expected to join his new teammates in training shortly as he begins his integration into the squad under the guidance of the club’s technical staff.

As Rapid Bucharest look ahead to a campaign filled with expectations, all eyes will be on Baroan to see if he can replicate—and build upon—the promising form he has shown in Switzerland and Bulgaria.