Guinean international Mohamed Bayo set for loan switch to Gaziantep FK

Guinean international Mohamed Bayo is set to join Turkish Super Lig side Gaziantep FK on loan from Lille, marking another move away from the French club after falling out of their long-term plans.

The 27-year-old forward, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Royal Antwerp in Belgium, had been the subject of interest from several clubs this summer.

Reports linked him with FC Nantes, Rayo Vallecano, Paris FC and Besiktas, but Gaziantep have won the race for his signature.

According to Foot Mercato, Bayo will sign a season-long loan deal without an option to buy, giving him the opportunity to revive his form and secure regular playing time in Turkey.

Bayo remains under contract with Lille until June 2027, having joined the French side from Clermont Foot in 2022.

Valued at €2.8 million on Transfermarkt, the striker earns around €1.8 million annually.

His status and wage demands made a permanent move difficult this summer, but a loan move was seen as the best solution for both player and club.

Despite his potential, Bayo has struggled to establish himself at Lille, where competition for attacking places limited his opportunities.

His spell in Belgium offered glimpses of his quality, yet it was not enough to convince Lille’s management to reintegrate him into their plans for the new season.

For Gaziantep, the deal represents an important reinforcement as they look to strengthen their squad early in the campaign.

The Turkish side are preparing for their upcoming league clash against Kasimpasa, where they will hope to bounce back and build momentum.

Bayo, who has represented Guinea at international level, will aim to rediscover the scoring touch that once made him one of Ligue 1’s most promising strikers.

Regular football in the Super Lig could provide the platform he needs to reignite his career and attract future opportunities, whether back at Lille or elsewhere.

The move to Gaziantep marks another chapter in Bayo’s career, one he will be keen to use as a springboard after a challenging period in France.