Braga prepares for Banza departure, signs Algerian winger Guitane
SC Braga is reshuffling its attacking lineup as the club prepares for the imminent departure of striker Simon Banza. With the Congolese international expected to leave for Turkey, Braga has already secured a replacement in Algerian winger Rafik Guitane.
Simon Banza, who played a crucial role in Braga’s success last season, is on the verge of exiting the club. Despite his impressive performance, the striker has found himself sidelined in recent weeks, paving the way for a transfer.
According to reports from Portuguese media outlet *Record*, Banza is set to join Turkish side Trabzonspor on loan.
The deal includes a €2 million loan fee, with Trabzonspor holding an option to purchase the player for €25 million at the end of the season.
Banza, who has nine caps for Congo, is expected to arrive in Turkey by Saturday evening to finalize the move.
As Banza prepares to leave, Braga has moved swiftly to bolster its squad by signing Rafik Guitane.
The 24-year-old Algerian international joins the club on loan from Estoril, with an option to buy for €5 million.
Guitane, who has been called up to the Algerian national team but is yet to make his debut, brings versatility and pace to Braga’s attack.
Standing at 1.70 meters, the winger is known for his agility and ability to play across multiple forward positions, making him a valuable addition to coach Carlos Carvalhal’s side.
Guitane is set to be available for Braga’s upcoming fixture against Vil Vicente on Sunday, as the team looks to continue its strong start to the season.
The signing of Guitane signals Braga’s intent to maintain its competitive edge, even as key players like Banza depart.
For Trabzonspor, currently sitting in a precarious position in the Süper Lig, Banza’s arrival could provide the spark needed to climb out of the relegation zone.
The Turkish club, currently 16th with three games in hand, will be hoping that the Congolese forward can replicate his goal-scoring form from Braga and help steer the team to safety.
As the European transfer window has officially closed, Braga’s swift action in securing Guitane underscores the club’s proactive approach to squad management.
With Banza’s departure now all but certain, the signing of Guitane offers Braga a fresh option in attack as they navigate the challenges of the new season.
The next few weeks will reveal whether these moves will pay off, but for now, Braga appears well-prepared for the road ahead.
📍 O lugar é aqui. Junto de nós.
Rafik Guitane já está em casa! 🫡#PorMais | #RafikGuitane pic.twitter.com/V0FNNTovBZ
— SC Braga (@SCBragaOficial) August 31, 2024
