FC Inter Turku midfielder Axel Kouame is on the verge of joining AIK Stockholm, with negotiations between the two clubs reaching an advanced stage.
The 21-year-old Ivorian, who has been one of Inter Turku’s standout performers in Finland’s Veikkausliiga, is expected to complete a transfer before the close of the summer window.
AIK are understood to have tabled a €1m offer, with a deal likely to be finalised in the coming days.
Kouame has emerged as a priority target for the Swedish side, who are keen to strengthen their attacking creativity. The midfielder has also expressed his willingness to embrace the move, signalling openness to a new challenge in Stockholm after two seasons in Finland.
Although French side Saint-Étienne and Finnish rivals HJK Helsinki had registered interest, Kouame’s future now appears firmly aligned with AIK.
The Stockholm club, long recognised for their ambition in the Scandinavian football landscape, see the playmaker as an ideal addition to revitalise their midfield.
For Inter Turku, Kouame’s departure will mark the loss of a key figure. Since the beginning of the current campaign, he has featured in 21 league matches, scoring four goals and contributing nine assists.
His influence has been central to the club’s attacking play, making his expected exit a significant blow as they look to close out the season.
Despite his contract with Inter Turku running until December 2026, Kouame’s consistent performances have pushed his value beyond his estimated €500,000 market price.
AIK’s offer, double that valuation, reflects both the player’s impact and his potential growth in a new environment.
The move, once finalised, will also signal a pivotal step in Kouame’s career. At just 21, he has already demonstrated maturity and vision in midfield, qualities that have attracted clubs beyond Scandinavia.
By choosing AIK, he will have the opportunity to test himself in a more competitive setting while continuing his development.
AIK have endured a challenging season and are looking to reshape their squad with an eye on long-term success. Kouame’s arrival is expected to inject creativity and attacking intent, particularly in linking midfield play with the forwards. His versatility in orchestrating attacks and his ability to create scoring chances have been regarded as essential attributes by the club’s management.
For Kouame, Sweden offers a new stage to showcase his abilities, and the potential move is seen as both a progression in his career and an opportunity to enhance his profile in European football.
After establishing himself in Finland, the midfielder is preparing to embrace the demands of a larger stage with one of Sweden’s most storied clubs.
While final paperwork remains to be completed, optimism is high that the deal will soon be concluded. AIK supporters will now be waiting to see how quickly Kouame can adapt to the Allsvenskan and provide the spark the team has been searching for in their midfield.