Malian midfielder Namory Sangaré is close to completing a permanent transfer to Libyan Premier League side Abu Salim SC, with a two-year contract understood to be on the verge of being finalised.
The 22-year-old defensive midfielder is currently a free agent but had been attracting interest from Qatari clubs, whose names have not been disclosed.
Despite those approaches, Sangaré looks set to commit his future to Abu Salim, a club where he spent the second half of last season on loan.
During that spell, the Malian delivered consistent and reliable performances, convincing the club’s management to pursue a long-term deal.
His displays were viewed as a key factor in Abu Salim’s ability to compete effectively in the Libyan top flight, ultimately securing a sixth-place finish.
Sangaré, who began his career with Djoliba AC in Mali before moving abroad, has also featured for Tunisian side US Tataouine.
His reputation as a ball-winning midfielder has grown steadily, and last season’s performances further underlined his value.
In total, he appeared in 14 matches for Abu Salim, earning praise for his tenacity, positional discipline, and ability to break up opposition play.
The proposed contract with Abu Salim is expected to include a significant improvement in personal terms compared with his previous deals, reflecting the importance the club has placed on retaining him.
Sources close to the negotiations have indicated that an agreement is imminent, with only minor formalities remaining before the deal is officially confirmed.
Sangaré’s rise in the Libyan league has been notable. At just 22, he has already established himself as one of the most effective midfield disruptors in the division, a reputation built on his reading of the game and tireless work rate.
Abu Salim’s decision to invest in him on a permanent basis signals the club’s ambition to build on last season’s stability and push further up the table.
For Sangaré, the move represents both continuity and opportunity. Returning to a familiar environment where he has already thrived provides a platform to further develop his career.
At the same time, a permanent contract offers security and the chance to play a more central role in the club’s long-term plans.
While interest from Qatar might have presented a financially lucrative option, the Malian appears to have prioritised regular playing time and career progression in choosing to stay in Libya.
Given his age and potential, continued strong performances in the Libyan Premier League could open the door to future moves abroad.
Abu Salim, who finished sixth last season, will be hopeful that Sangaré’s presence can help them solidify their midfield and mount a stronger challenge in the coming campaign.
His ability to shield the defence and dictate play from deeper areas is expected to be vital as the club looks to improve on its recent performances.
As the deal nears completion, Sangaré is preparing to begin pre-season with Abu Salim, ready to embrace the next chapter of his career.
For both player and club, the agreement marks an important step towards building a more competitive future in Libyan football.
