Simon Banza arrives in Thessaloniki ahead of PAOK move

Simon Banza has arrived in Thessaloniki as he closes in on a move to PAOK after missing his scheduled flight earlier on Friday.

The 30-year-old forward landed in the Greek city on Friday evening to continue negotiations between PAOK and Al Jazira, his current club. He is expected to complete a medical before signing his contract.

Banza is set to join PAOK on loan from Al Jazira, with the agreement reportedly including an option to buy for 4 million euros, according to Athlosnews. Transfermarkt values the Democratic Republic of the Congo international at 10 million euros.

PAOK are bringing in the forward to strengthen their attacking options as he begins another chapter in his career after spells in France, Portugal, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates.

Born in France and developed by RC Lens, Banza made 99 first-team appearances for the club and scored 18 goals. He later established himself in Portugal with Famalicao and SC Braga.

His record at Braga was particularly notable. Across 90 matches, he scored 37 goals and provided 15 assists, underlining his effectiveness in front of goal.

Banza enjoyed his most productive recent campaign during the 2024/25 season at Trabzonspor, where he scored 22 goals in 37 appearances. His performances there led Al Jazira to pay Braga 8.5 million euros to sign him several months later.

He has also represented the Democratic Republic of the Congo at international level. Banza featured twice for the Leopards at the 2026 World Cup and will now prepare for a new challenge in Greece with PAOK.

His arrival in Thessaloniki represents a further step towards completing the transfer, with the medical examination and contract signing still to come.