Nathan Gassama: Torino eye move for Mali-French Baltika defender

Nathan Gassama, the Mali-French centre-back currently at Baltika Kaliningrad, is being linked with a move to Serie A side Torino. The Italian club are monitoring the 25-year-old left-footer as they weigh up defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season.

Gassama has become a key figure for Baltika in the Russian Premier Liga, making 39 top-flight appearances and contributing three assists, as well as featuring regularly in the Russian Cup. His form in Russia has coincided with his rise in market valuation, which now stands at around 1.5 million.

Standing at 1.92m, Gassama helped Baltika to the Russian second tier title in 2025, a success that preceded their push in the top division and has drawn interest from abroad. Torinos recruitment staff are understood to be tracking defenders with experience in physically demanding leagues, and Gassamas consistent game time in Russia has brought him into focus.

Baltika signed Gassama from Bulgarian side Slavia Sofia in August 2023 for a reported fee of around 500,000, and he has gone on to establish himself in their back line since moving from French lower-league football. His development from Evry-born youth player to senior regular has included spells with Nantes and Troyes reserve teams before his first moves abroad.

Any deal is likely to be complicated by the defenders contract situation. Gassama is tied to Baltika until 30 June 2028, leaving the Russian club in a strong position should Torino decide to formalise their interest.