The proposed transfer of Schalke 04 striker Moussa Sylla to New York City FC has collapsed in the final stages, meaning the 26-year-old will remain with the Gelsenkirchen club for the foreseeable future.
What appeared to be a straightforward deal valued at around €7 million, including bonuses, fell through at the last minute due to complications on the American side. Over the weekend, reports suggested the transfer was in turmoil, a notion fueled by Sylla himself on Instagram, where he posted, “Schalke fans, you are crazy. I’m coming home.”
Schalke confirmed on Tuesday that the striker will stay, with sporting director Frank Baumann expressing frustration over the failed negotiations.
“We are irritated by the behaviour of New York City FC,” he said.
According to Sky, the deal unravelled after NYCFC attempted to renegotiate the terms following Sylla’s medical examination. Minor irregularities reportedly prompted the MLS club to propose a loan until the summer instead of a permanent transfer, causing talks to stall on Sunday evening. Sylla remains under contract with Schalke until 2028.
Since joining Schalke in 2023, Sylla quickly became a key figure, scoring 16 goals in his first season. This campaign, however, has seen a dip in form, with four goals and two assists in 19 appearances so far. The striker will now look to regain his momentum with the Bundesliga side.
