Kocaelispor, newly promoted to Turkey’s Süper Lig, have set their sights once again on Senegalese striker Philippe Keny as they prepare to strengthen their squad for the challenges of top-flight football.
Following their second-place finish in the 1. Lig, Kocaelispor are wasting no time in reinforcing their attack. At the top of their list is 25-year-old Keny, who recently became a free agent after the expiration of his contract with İstanbul Başakşehir.
The club views his availability as a timely opportunity to finally secure a player they have been tracking for several years.
Keny, who previously played for Bandırmaspor before making the move to Başakşehir, has remained on Kocaelispor’s radar despite their failed attempts to sign him in the past. Financial constraints had previously hindered a potential deal, with the cost of a transfer fee proving too high. Now, with no club currently holding his registration, Kocaelispor believe the timing is right to make another approach.
In the 2024–25 season, Keny featured in 24 league games for Başakşehir, contributing three goals and six assists. His influence extended into European competition as well, with the Senegalese forward making a total of 34 appearances across all competitions, including the UEFA Europa Conference League.
While his scoring numbers may not be prolific, his ability to link up play, create chances, and stretch defences has made him an appealing prospect for several clubs this summer.
Kocaelispor’s determination to acquire Keny is not without competition. Several sides, both within Turkey and abroad, are reported to be monitoring the striker’s situation closely. Nevertheless, Kocaelispor’s long-standing interest and immediate need for proven attacking options could place them in a favourable position, especially if they are able to move quickly and present a convincing project.
With survival in the Süper Lig a primary objective for the coming season, the club is keen to add experience and versatility to its forward line. Keny, known for his physical presence and work rate, fits the profile of a striker capable of adapting to the demands of Turkey’s top division.
His previous stint at Bandırmaspor in the lower leagues also gives him a familiarity with the country’s footballing environment, which Kocaelispor view as an added bonus.
For Keny, a move to Kocaelispor could offer regular playing time and a leading role in a club eager to make a statement on its return to the elite level. Talks are expected to intensify in the coming weeks as Kocaelispor firm up their transfer strategy.
Whether this latest approach will finally bring Philippe Keny to the club remains uncertain, but Kocaelispor’s renewed interest signals clear intent as they aim to build a squad capable of competing — and surviving — in the Süper Lig.
