Stade de Reims beat European giants to sign Mali wonderkid Seydou Dembele

Stade de Reims have secured the signing of highly rated Malian youngster Seydou Dembele from the JMG Bamako Academy.

The French club moved quickly to win the race for the 18-year-old midfielder, despite reported interest from several major European clubs.

Dembele has now signed his first professional contract with Reims, taking the next major step in his football career after making a name for himself on the international stage.

The talented midfielder caught the attention of scouts during the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar, where he produced a series of impressive performances for Mali.

He finished the tournament with two goals and four assists in five appearances, underlining his attacking quality and ability to influence games from midfield. His performances also helped establish him as one of the standout young players at the competition.

Dembele’s displays did not go unnoticed, with Premier League heavyweights Chelsea and Manchester United, as well as Spanish giants Barcelona, reportedly keeping tabs on his progress.

However, it is Reims who have managed to secure his signature and will now take responsibility for his development as he begins his professional career in France.

The move represents another important opportunity for the youngster to continue his development in a competitive European environment, with Reims hoping to help him fulfil the potential he has already shown with Mali.