Italian Serie A side Cagliari Calcio have confirmed the return of Ghanaian midfielder Ibrahim Sulemana after completing a loan move from Atalanta BC until the end of the 2025/26 season, with an option to make the deal permanent.
“Cagliari Calcio is pleased to announce the acquisition of the registration rights of the player Ibrahim Sulemana, who moves from Atalanta BC on loan – until the end of the 2025/26 season – with an option to buy,” Cagliari announced on Wednesday.
The Rossoblù are hoping Sulemana’s arrival will ease their midfield concerns following injuries to key players, including Alessandro Deiola and Michael Folorunsho. Despite attracting interest from several clubs, the midfielder expressed a strong desire to return to Sardinia, a factor that played a decisive role in completing the move.
Sulemana struggled for consistent playing time during the first half of the season, making limited appearances while on loan at Bologna. The loan arrangement originally agreed between Atalanta and Bologna last summer has now been transferred to Cagliari, with the option to buy reportedly set below the €11 million figure initially discussed between the two clubs.
The 22-year-old has endured a challenging period in terms of continuity, featuring only three times in the league this season. Across his spell with Atalanta, he has made nine Serie A appearances, scoring twice. During his previous stint with Cagliari in the 2023–24 season, Sulemana played 24 matches in all competitions, scoring two goals in 21 league appearances and featuring three times in the Coppa Italia.
His return offers Cagliari added depth and familiarity in midfield as they look to stabilise their squad for the remainder of the campaign.
