Belgian side Gent have completed the signing of Senegalese forward Moctar Diop, with the 21-year-old committing his future to the club on a long-term deal running until 2029.
The striker joins the Jupiler Pro League outfit from Norwegian club Lillestrøm SK, with the transfer reported to be worth €1.5m. Gent move quickly to secure the young attacker as part of their longer-term squad planning, adding another emerging talent to their forward line.
Diop’s arrival marks the latest step in a steady rise that has taken him from Senegalese youth football to the European stage. He began his development at Thies FC before continuing his progression with Espoirs de Guédiawaye, two clubs known for nurturing young players.
His early promise earned him a move abroad in March 2023, when he left Senegal to begin his professional career in Norway.
His first experience in Scandinavian football came with Ålesunds, where he was introduced to the demands of senior football in a competitive European league.
That spell paved the way for a move to Lillestrøm SK, where his performances and potential drew attention beyond Norway’s borders.
Gent’s interest reflects the growing reputation Diop has built in a relatively short period. At just 21, the Senegalese striker is viewed as a player with significant room for development, aligning with Gent’s strategy of investing in young profiles capable of contributing now while also offering future value.
The Belgian club see the long-term contract as a statement of confidence in Diop’s abilities and adaptability. His experience across different leagues and footballing cultures is expected to help ease his transition into Belgian football, while also providing the club with added depth and versatility in attack.
For Diop, the move represents an important milestone in his career. Joining a club with regular European ambitions offers him the opportunity to test himself at a higher level and continue his progression within a structured environment.
Gent, meanwhile, will hope the former Thies FC and Espoirs de Guédiawaye player can quickly integrate into their system and justify the investment.
With his journey from Senegal to Norway now leading him to Belgium, Moctar Diop’s next chapter begins with high expectations and a clear vote of faith from his new club.
𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙙𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 📦
1m93, Striker, Buffalo. Bienvenue, Moctar!
MEER | https://t.co/UCpdniIs3X pic.twitter.com/M937ieSOok
— KAA Gent (@KAAGent) January 23, 2026
