African football roundup: Bakambu leaves San Diego FC as Choupo-Moting’s MLS spell ends

Cedric Bakambu has confirmed his departure from San Diego FC despite only joining the Major League Soccer club during the summer transfer window.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo international, 35, had signed a contract running until 31 December 2026, with an option for a further two years. However, he has already said goodbye to his team-mates and supporters in a message posted on Instagram.

Bakambu scored five goals and provided three assists in nine Major League Soccer appearances during his brief spell in San Diego. His market value is estimated at 1 million euros by Transfermarkt.

At Bayern Munich, 14-year-old winger Bryson Ngatchou has agreed a partnership with Nike. The German-Cameroonian youngster, known as “DerBlitz”, announced the deal on Instagram.

Ngatchou currently plays in Bayern Munich’s youth system and the agreement represents further recognition of his development as he works towards a career in professional football.

Premier League interest in Barcelona prospect

Aston Villa and Everton are monitoring 16-year-old Ebrima Tunkara, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The attacking midfielder, who was born in The Gambia, is regarded as one of La Masia’s leading prospects. English intermediaries are reportedly trying to persuade him to continue his development in the Premier League.

Tunkara plays for Barca Atletic but has already trained with the first team. FC Barcelona extended his contract on 23 January 2026 until 2029. He is valued at 5 million euros.

Algerian forward Karim Boutera has welcomed his progress at Degerfors in Sweden and his latest call-up to the Algeria Under-23 squad.

Speaking to Maghreb-Foot, the 21-year-old expressed his pride at being selected by Rafik Saifi for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Eswatini. After his performances against South Africa, Boutera said he intends to justify the confidence placed in him and help his side reach the tournament.

Boutera is contracted to Degerfors IF until 30 June 2030 and has an estimated market value of 50,000 euros on Transfermarkt.

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting’s time with New York Red Bulls is over. Following the 3-0 victory over Atlanta United on 7 November, the Cameroon striker posted a farewell message to supporters.

The former Bayern Munich player joined in January 2025 and spent two seasons in MLS. In a video shared by AllRedBulls, Choupo-Moting thanked the fans for their support.

His contract has expired and New York Red Bulls did not activate the option for 2027. The 37-year-old is now expected to consider other opportunities, with his market value put at 1 million euros.

Nigeria internationals Joe Aribo and Saturday Erimuya are targeting returns to football during the January transfer window. Footy-Africa reports that Luton Town and Notts County are interested in 30-year-old Aribo, who would favour a return to England after previous interest from Turkey.

Erimuya, 28, could return to Spain, with former club AD Ceuta considering a January move for the ex-Valladolid and Cadiz defender.

David Odogu may leave Toulouse in January. Florian Plettenberg reports that the 20-year-old centre-back is considering an early end to his loan from AC Milan, with both clubs expected to reach a mutual agreement. He wants regular playing time at a high competitive level and has already attracted enquiries. Odogu is valued at 5 million euros.

APR FC have extended the contract of Ugandan left-back Hakim Kiwanuka until 30 June 2029. The 26-year-old, who joined in January 2025, has a market value of 50,000 euros.