Italian-Cameroonian player Franco Tongya seals Gençlerbirliği move 

Franco Tongya has completed a move to Turkish side Gençlerbirliği SK following Salernitana’s relegation to Serie C, bringing his time at the Italian club to an early end.

The 23-year-old attacking midfielder, who joined Salernitana only a year ago, had been widely expected to continue his career in Serie B with Cesena.

Instead, he opted for an unexpected change of direction, signing a two-year contract with Gençlerbirliği, with the option of a further year.

The decision was strongly backed by Tongya’s father, who also acts as his adviser, he explained why Turkey was deemed the best option despite interest from Italy’s second tier.

My assessment of this transfer is positive. Between staying in Italy and playing in Serie B or C with Salernitana, which is far inferior to Turkey, it was the best option. The Turkish league is booming and it was a very good opportunity for him, he said.

He added that a strong season in the Süper Lig could provide a platform for Tongya to move into Europe’s more prestigious leagues.

There, if he has a very good season, he could have access to more renowned championships, notably the Premier League, the German or even French championship, or why not stay in Turkey where there are Besiktas, Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe who pay players very well. For us, his family, it was the best choice, and for Franco too. We’ll just keep our fingers crossed and let Franco do what he can. Since childhood, he’s always been very bright, and as they always say, the banana that’s meant to ripen will always ripen.

Tongya, born in Turin to Cameroonian parents, is a product of Juventus’ youth academy and represented the club at every junior level.

His career has already taken him across Europe, with spells at Marseille, Odense BK in Denmark, and AEK Larnaca in Cyprus before his return to Italy with Salernitana.

Now valued at around €1m, Tongya is tasked with helping Gençlerbirliği turn around their poor start to the Süper Lig season, with the club currently bottom of the table.

His arrival is expected to provide creativity and attacking impetus as they prepare for their upcoming clash against Rizespor.

𝐇𝐎𝐒̧ 𝐆𝐄𝐋𝐃𝐈̇𝐍 𝐅𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐎 𝐓𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐘𝐀 ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/2meEKBSI3S

— Gençlerbirliği SK (@kirmizikara) September 6, 2025

Tongya’s move to Turkey marks another pivotal step in a career that has seen him navigate contrasting footballing environments across the continent.

For both player and club, the partnership represents a fresh opportunity: Gençlerbirliği seek revival in the league, while Tongya aims to reignite a career that many believe still holds untapped potential.