Jardell Kanga: Motherwell add Sweden-DR Congo midfielder after Ilves switch

Sweden and DR Congo attacking midfielder Jardell Kanga has joined Motherwell from Finnish club Ilves for €400,000.

The 20-year-old has signed a contract with the Scottish Premiership club running until 30 June 2029, completing his move on 28 August 2026.

Kanga arrives at Fir Park after playing in all six of Ilves’ UEFA Conference League qualifying matches this season. He scored once and supplied three assists, starting every game and playing 98% of the available minutes.

The left-footed midfielder, who was born in Stockholm, has played primarily in the attacking midfield position. He stands 1.70m tall and moves to Scotland after a spell in Finland’s Veikkausliiga.

Kanga joined Ilves after previously being associated with Hammarby during the 2024-25 season. His time with the Swedish club followed an earlier move from Bayer Leverkusen’s under-19 side, while he had also spent time with De Graafschap and Brommapojkarna.

The transfer continues a career that has included moves between Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands and Finland before his switch to Motherwell. His most recent campaign began with a significant role in Ilves’ European qualifying run, where his three assists made him a regular contributor in the side’s attacking play.

Motherwell have secured Kanga’s services on a deal that keeps him at the club through the end of June 2029.