Turkey Move Looms for Algeria’s Djabou Despite Transfer Denial
Algerian international Abdelmoumene Djabou could soon be making a move to Turkey, despite publicly denying interest from Trabzonspor earlier this week.
The attacking midfielder, who impressed at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, is now reportedly close to joining the Turkish Süper Lig side. The club, currently managed by former Algeria head coach Vahid Halilhodzic, is believed to be pursuing the 27-year-old with intent, and a deal valued at around €4 million is said to be nearing completion.
Halilhodzic, who guided Algeria through a memorable World Cup campaign that saw them reach the Round of 16 for the first time in their history, is keen to reunite with Djabou. The coach reportedly views the former Club Africain player as a key addition to bolster Trabzonspor’s attacking options.
Djabou played a standout role in Algeria’s World Cup journey, scoring twice — including a dramatic late goal against Germany in the knockout stage. His performances drew praise both at home and abroad, with many tipping him for a move to a European league.
While the player himself recently dismissed reports linking him to Trabzonspor, stating in a local interview that “there is nothing concrete,” sources close to the negotiations suggest otherwise. Talks are believed to be progressing behind the scenes, and the move could materialise in the coming days.
In addition to the Turkish interest, Djabou has reportedly attracted offers from two clubs in France, though no formal bids have been disclosed publicly. The playmaker has made it clear in previous interviews that he is open to a move to Europe, where he hopes to further his career after his rise on the international stage.
A potential transfer to Turkey would mark Djabou’s first venture into European football. Having spent much of his career in North Africa, including a successful stint with Tunisia’s Club Africain, the Algerian playmaker now seems poised for the next chapter.
Should the move go through, Djabou would join a growing number of Algerian internationals plying their trade in European leagues — a trend that has helped raise the profile of Algerian football in recent years.