Toulouse are on the verge of completing the signing of Ghanaian midfielder Francis Abu from Belgian Pro League side Cercle Brugge, with negotiations now in their final stages.
The French club have emerged as front-runners to land the 24-year-old, fending off interest from Premier League outfit Burnley, Italian Serie A sides Torino and Genoa, as well as Turkish clubs Basaksehir FK and Trabzonspor.
According to sources close to the deal, Abu is expected to finalise terms with Toulouse in the coming days.
Abu, who joined Cercle Brugge in 2022, has made a notable impact during his time in Belgium, racking up over 60 league appearances and contributing one goal and seven assists.
Known for his tireless work ethic and tactical discipline, the midfielder has established himself as a regular fixture in the starting eleven, wearing the number 21 shirt.
His impending transfer comes as he enters the final year of his contract with Cercle Brugge. The club is reportedly open to selling the Ghanaian this summer rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next year.
Abu’s ability to operate across multiple midfield roles, combined with his defensive awareness and creativity in possession, has made him an attractive prospect for clubs across Europe.
Before his move to Belgium, Abu began his professional journey with Danish side FC Nordsjaelland. After progressing through their youth ranks, he made his senior debut in the 2019/20 campaign.
During his time in the Danish Superliga, he gained a reputation as a versatile and technically sound midfielder, attributes that paved the way for his move to Cercle Brugge.
On the international stage, Abu has represented Ghana at senior level, earning five caps for the Black Stars. His inclusion in the national team setup reflects his steady rise in European football and growing recognition back home.
Toulouse, who finished 10th in Ligue 1 last season, are looking to reinforce key areas ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. Despite a promising run, inconsistency plagued the team’s performance throughout the year.
Strengthening the midfield has become a top priority for the club’s technical staff, and Abu’s arrival is viewed as a significant step towards building a more balanced and competitive squad.
If the deal goes through, the Ghanaian midfielder will be tasked with bringing energy, structure, and forward momentum to Toulouse’s midfield line.
His experience in top-flight European football and international exposure are expected to bring added value to a side seeking to climb higher in the league standings.
With the move nearing completion, Toulouse fans will be hopeful that Francis Abu can replicate his Cercle Brugge form in France and play a pivotal role in the club’s ambitions for the upcoming season.
🟢⚫️ Toulouse want to sign Abu Francis (24), as per @sachatavolieri. 🚨🇬🇭
Cercle received an offer of 2,5M € for the midfielder with 1 year (+ 1 year option) left on his contract.
Negotiations ongoing for Abu to join the Ligue 1 side after 3 years at Cercle. pic.twitter.com/CoW3IenDT0
— Cercle Brugge NWS (@CercleBruggeNWS) August 1, 2025
