Highly rated Senegalese-Gambian forward Mustapha Koma has emerged as a major target for several European clubs this summer, with Ligue 1 rivals RC Lens and Lille OSC leading the chase for the 18-year-old talent from the Cœur Foot Academy in Dakar.
Koma, a dual-national with a Senegalese father and Gambian mother, has built a growing reputation as a prolific striker at youth level.
His performances for the Dakar-based academy have caught the eye of numerous scouts, and interest has surged ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Both Lens and Lille have intensified their pursuit in recent weeks, joining a list of suitors that includes long-time admirer FC Metz.
Metz, who began tracking Koma at the age of 16, now faces stiff competition from domestic and international clubs keen on securing the services of the promising attacker.
In Belgium, top-flight sides Westerlo and Mechelen are monitoring the situation closely.
Croatian giants Dinamo Zagreb and Romanian outfit FCSB—last season’s UEFA Europa League Round of 16 contenders—are also believed to be preparing formal approaches.
Despite his young age, Koma has developed a reputation for his sharp finishing, intelligent movement, and physical maturity—attributes that have made him one of the most sought-after talents on the West African football scene this summer.
Cœur Foot Academy, known for its emphasis on technical excellence and professional preparation, has already produced players who have made successful transitions to Europe, and Koma appears set to follow that path.
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Sources suggest that the forward is keen on a move that will offer him a clear route to first-team football, as well as the opportunity to grow in a competitive environment.
As interest intensifies, it remains to be seen which club will win the race for Koma’s signature.
Lens and Lille, two fierce rivals from northern France, are both offering compelling projects, and their involvement adds extra intrigue to what is shaping up to be one of the more closely watched youth transfers of the summer.
With the transfer window now in full swing, a decision on the player’s future is expected in the coming weeks.
For now, Mustapha Koma remains one of West Africa’s most coveted young prospects.
