Seydina Keita: Senegal defender rejoins Panevezys from Gabala

Senegal centre-back Seydina Keita has rejoined Lithuanian champions Panevezys from FK Gabala. The 33-year-old defender returns to the Toplyga club after a spell in the Azerbaijan Premyer Liqa, signing a deal that runs until 30 June 2028.

Keita, who was born in Pikine and plays primarily as a right-footed central defender, first moved to Panevezys in 2022 after a short period without a club. He has since established a strong connection with the Lithuanian side, featuring in multiple stints with the club either side of moves to Al-Tadamon SC and Gabala.

The experienced defender heads back to Lithuania after joining Gabala from Panevezys in January 2026. During his time in Azerbaijan he featured in the national cup, starting both of Gabalas matches in the 2025-26 Azerbaycan Kuboku and playing the majority of available minutes.

Keitas return comes with a notable track record of silverware in Baltic and Scandinavian football. He has twice lifted the Latvian Cup with FK Liepaja in 2017 and 2020, and helped Molde to both the Norwegian league and cup double in 2014. With Panevezys he has already been part of a Lithuanian league title-winning side in 2023 and added the Lithuanian Cup in 2025.

Having previously joined Panevezys from Gabala and now made the reverse move, Keitas latest transfer confirms a long-term commitment to the Lithuanian club through a contract that runs to the summer of 2028.