Turkish side Göztepe have entered into negotiations with Belgian outfit Zulte Waregem in a bid to sign Senegalese midfielder Pape Demba Diop, following his standout season in the Belgian second division.
Diop, a Senegal international at both U20 and U23 levels, played a central role in helping Zulte Waregem secure promotion to the Belgian top flight.
The 21-year-old’s consistent displays have not gone unnoticed, with Göztepe among the first European clubs to take formal steps toward securing his services.
According to reports, the Turkish club has already dispatched scouts to Belgium to observe the midfielder in recent fixtures.
The young midfielder first caught widespread attention after finishing as the top scorer at the 2023 U20 Africa Cup of Nations, where he helped Senegal clinch the title.
Since then, his career has continued to ascend with six goals and six assists recorded in the current campaign for Zulte Waregem, figures that underscore his growing influence in midfield.
Ranked by Sofascore among the best players in Belgium’s second tier this season, Diop has emerged as a modern, dynamic midfielder known for his vision, passing accuracy and ability to make decisive contributions in the final third.
His performances have drawn interest beyond Turkey with clubs in France and Italy also reportedly monitoring his progress.
Despite extending his contract with Zulte Waregem earlier in the season, Diop’s growing reputation has prompted several clubs to test the waters.
Göztepe have made the earliest move, with Turkish media suggesting that early contact has already been made between club officials and their Belgian counterparts.
Speaking previously about his contract renewal, Diop said: “I extended my contract because the club has confidence in me.”
That mutual trust between player and club has paid dividends this season with Diop now being regarded as one of the top emerging talents in Belgian football.
Valued at €700,000 on Transfermarkt, the Senegalese international offers versatility and a high ceiling for development.
His technical skill set and work rate have led analysts to suggest he could adapt well to a variety of European leagues including Turkey’s Super Lig.
Göztepe’s interest comes as the club seeks to strengthen its midfield options ahead of the new season. The Turkish side, keen to build a competitive squad capable of climbing the domestic ranks, appears intent on acquiring young, high-potential players who can make an immediate impact while also offering long-term value.
While the Turkish club is reportedly leading the race, competition for Diop’s signature could intensify in the coming weeks, especially as the summer transfer window approaches and more clubs begin formalising their recruitment strategies.
Zulte Waregem’s stance on whether they are willing to part with one of their standout players remains unclear.
However, with rising interest from across Europe and Diop’s profile on the rise, the Belgian side may soon face difficult decisions regarding the future of one of their most prized assets.
