FC Sheriff Tiraspol is poised to secure the signature of rising Malian winger Abdoulaye Diarra, marking the club’s second major acquisition from Mali’s top flight this summer following the arrival of Soumaïla Magassouba.
The 18-year-old talent, widely known by his nickname “Ablaye,” is expected to travel to Moldova in the coming days to finalise his move from AS Bakaridjan de Baraouli.
Sources close to the deal confirmed the imminent signing, which would see Diarra begin his European football journey at Moldova’s most decorated club.
Standing at an imposing 1.97 metres, Diarra has caught the attention of international scouts with his blend of physical strength, athleticism, and attacking versatility.
Capable of operating as both a left winger and a centre forward, he has been a consistent presence in AS Bakaridjan’s 2024–25 campaign, contributing five assists across several key fixtures.
Diarra’s standout performances in the Malian Ligue 1 did not go unnoticed. In addition to his club exploits, the young attacker earned a call-up to the local national team under coach Baye Bâ, further cementing his reputation as one of Mali’s brightest prospects.
Despite interest from multiple clubs during the season, Diarra has opted for a move to FC Sheriff — a decision viewed as a strategic step for his development.
The Moldovan side, based in Tiraspol, offers a competitive environment with a proven track record of nurturing talent while competing in both domestic and European competitions.
With 21 national championships, 12 Moldovan Cups, and 7 Super Cups to their name, FC Sheriff are widely recognised as the dominant force in Moldovan football.
Their regular appearances in UEFA competitions, including the Europa League and Champions League qualifiers, provide a valuable platform for young players seeking to make their mark on the international stage.
Diarra will join a growing Malian contingent at the club, including compatriots Soumaïla Magassouba and Moussa Kyabou.
Their presence is expected to ease his adaptation to life in Moldova, both on and off the pitch, offering guidance and familiarity as he transitions from domestic football in West Africa to the European arena.
The move signals a significant moment in Diarra’s budding career, as he prepares to take on new challenges at a higher level of competition.
FC Sheriff, known for their structured development system and competitive success, present a unique opportunity for the young forward to refine his skills and gain valuable international experience.
For AS Bakaridjan, the transfer represents the latest chapter in their growing reputation as a breeding ground for talent capable of progressing to European clubs.
Diarra’s departure, while a loss to the Malian side, underscores the increasing global attention being paid to players emerging from the nation’s domestic league.
As the final details of the transfer are completed, Diarra now looks ahead to the next stage of his footballing journey — one filled with promise, potential, and the prospect of representing Mali on an even bigger stage.
