Senegalese striker Sékou Mara is on the verge of a transfer to Turkish Super Lig side Goztepe, following a season at Southampton that garnered mixed reviews. The 21-year-old forward has attracted significant interest from Goztepe, with negotiations between the Turkish club and Southampton reportedly progressing well.
Discussions have been ongoing for several weeks, and according to sources from Africafoot, an agreement is more than 50% complete.
While specific details of Goztepe’s offer remain undisclosed, speculation suggests the transfer deal could be valued at around €8 million.
This potential move marks a significant step for Mara, who is expected to join Goztepe for their pre-season preparations.
During the last season, Mara made 34 league appearances for Southampton, scoring six goals and providing two assists.
Despite his contributions, Southampton endured a challenging campaign, and Mara’s performance, although appreciated by some, did not prevent the club from exploring transfer options for him.
His market value is currently estimated at €6 million according to Transfermarkt. If the €8 million deal materializes, Goztepe will be paying a premium for the young talent.
Sékou Mara joined Southampton in July 2022 from Bordeaux, with the English club investing €11.5 million in the promising forward.
His contract with Southampton is set to run until June 2026. However, the opportunity to play in the Turkish Super Lig presents a new challenge and a chance for Mara to further develop his career.
Goztepe’s interest in Mara underscores their ambition to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. Acquiring a player of Mara’s potential is a strategic move aimed at bolstering their attacking options.
Mara’s youth and talent make him an attractive prospect for the Turkish club, which is looking to make an impact in the Super Lig.
As Sékou Mara prepares for a potential move to Goztepe, both clubs are working towards finalizing the details of the transfer.
With the agreement reportedly more than halfway complete, fans of both Southampton and Goztepe are eager to see the outcome.
For Mara, this move represents a new chapter in his burgeoning career, offering him the chance to showcase his skills in a different league and continue his development as a top striker.
The football community will be watching closely as this transfer unfolds, anticipating how Mara’s arrival will influence Goztepe’s performance in the upcoming season.
