Columbus Crew have reached an agreement in principle to sign Guinean international attacking midfielder Sekou Tidiany Bangoura, completing a deal that sees the Major League Soccer side beat off competition from a host of European suitors.
The 23-year-old, who has been one of the most closely followed young players on the market in recent weeks, was persuaded by the American club’s project after negotiations that were described as both swift and decisive.
The Ohio-based side were prepared to make a strong financial commitment to secure the player, convincing both Bangoura and his Israeli club, Ironi Kiryat Shmona, that the move represented the right step forward.
According to exclusive information from Africafoot, Columbus Crew have agreed to pay $400,000 (€339,752) to buy out the player’s contract, which had originally been set at $500,000 (€424,692) by Ironi Kiryat Shmona.
Following what were characterised as constructive talks, the two clubs found common ground on the lower figure, allowing the transfer to progress rapidly.
Bangoura is expected to put pen to paper on a two-year contract, with an option for a third season.
His arrival in the United States is now considered imminent, and sources close to the negotiations say he has already signed a pre-contract with the Crew, paving the way for the final formalities to be completed.
The move marks the end of a prolonged period of uncertainty around the player’s future.
Several European clubs had been monitoring his situation closely, with FC Lorient among those believed to have been particularly keen.
However, despite their interest, potential deals were undermined by difficulties in activating the midfielder’s release clause.
Although Ironi Kiryat Shmona were initially open to a move to Europe, it was ultimately the clarity and decisiveness of the MLS proposal that swayed all parties.
The player’s entourage has confirmed that Bangoura departed Israel in midweek after bidding farewell to his teammates, coaching staff and club officials.
He is expected to spend the weekend in Conakry to complete outstanding administrative procedures before flying on to the United States to meet his new employers.
Bangoura arrives with a solid recent record in the Israeli Premier League, having made 24 appearances and scored once this season.
His performances have underlined his versatility and technical qualities, attributes that attracted attention well beyond Israel’s borders.
Before his spell with Ironi Kiryat Shmona, the Guinean international had featured for Tuzlaspor in Turkey, building a reputation as a dynamic attacking midfielder capable of influencing games from advanced positions.
For Columbus Crew, the deal represents a significant statement of intent as they look to strengthen their squad with emerging international talent.
For Bangoura, it is a chance to open a new chapter of his career in Major League Soccer, leaving behind the European stage to test himself in a new environment, one that he and his advisers believe will offer both regular football and long-term development opportunities.
