Guinean playmaker Morlaye Sylla draws interest from Damac FC as Saudi club overtakes Southampton

Morlaye Sylla, the Guinean attacking midfielder now available on a free transfer, appears to be edging closer to a move to Saudi Pro League side Damac FC, with the club believed to have moved faster than Premier League-linked Southampton to begin negotiations.

The 26‑year‑old former Arouca playmaker, whose contract expired on 30 June, has emerged as a key target this summer. While Southampton and German outfits such as FC Sankt Pauli had previously expressed interest, recent developments suggest Damac FC have seized the initiative by entering direct talks with Sylla’s representatives.

Initial discussions between Damac FC and the player’s camp have reportedly been productive, with an exclusive source confirming the conversation was positive.

The Guinean, popular in Saudi Arabia, is understood to be reviewing formal proposals and weighing his options carefully. He is currently said to be in the country with his management team to further engage in negotiations.

Damac FC is understood to have tabled a two‑year contract, featuring an optional third season, worth in the region of €300,000 per year.

Negotiations are expected to resume on the next working day in Saudi Arabia, as talks stalled briefly over the weekend.

The player’s side have indicated that if the terms align with their expectations, Sylla would not rule out joining the Saudi club.

Market valuations place the Guinean midfielder at approximately €2 million, making the Damac offer competitive, particularly given the opportunity presented by free agency.

Sylla is reportedly drawn to the project put forward by Damac FC and views the Saudi Pro League as a platform conducive to his continued development.

Despite the momentum building around Damac, Southampton—and German clubs such as Sankt Pauli and potentially Augsburg—remain in contention. Clubs in Europe continue to evaluate Sylla’s attributes, including his technical composure, ability to play in multiple midfield roles, and his experience in top‑flight football in Portugal.

Sylla spent three seasons with Arouca, making close to 100 appearances and contributing goals and assists consistently. His departure from the Portuguese side was publicly confirmed in mid‑May, when he formally bade farewell and thanked the fans for their support during his tenure.

That period included standout performances in Liga Portugal, where he established himself as a creative presence in midfield.

Sankt Pauli have reportedly held advanced talks, recognising Sylla’s ability to influence games from central or wide positions. They see him as a valuable addition ahead of the coming Bundesliga season.

Augsburg have also been named among interested parties, with Damac’s bold move now adding complexity to what has become a competitive market for his signature.

A source commented: “Southampton was a serious option just a few days ago, but things have changed. In Saudi, Morlaye is well regarded.

We have real offers and Damac is pushing the hardest. It’s now about assessing if the offer fits our ambitions.”

Notably, Sylla’s agent Lappé Bangoura has been linked historically with advising a move to Juventus, reflecting high expectations for the player. Although a shift to Italy has not been confirmed, it remains a potential avenue should European suitors intensify contact.

Fans of both European and Middle Eastern clubs will be watching closely as the situation develops. A decision from Sylla is likely in the near future, with Damac’s lead position casting a new light on the transfer race.

In conclusion, Morlaye Sylla’s next destination may lie in Riyadh if talks progress to a definitive agreement with Damac FC. Yet, with Southampton and Bundesliga teams still active, the Guinean’s future remains open. The coming days promise further clarity on where this talented midfielder will embark next.