Stoke City close to sealing €4.5m deal for Senegal midfielder Djibril Soumare

Stoke City are reportedly nearing an agreement to sign Senegalese midfielder Djibril Soumare from Portuguese side SC Braga following his impressive loan spell with Sheffield United.

The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the most sought-after midfielders in the Championship after a series of strong performances during the 2025/26 season. His displays at Sheffield United caught the attention of several clubs, but Stoke City appear to have won the race for his signature.

According to reports, negotiations between Stoke City and SC Braga are at an advanced stage, with both clubs close to finalizing a transfer worth around €4.5 million.

Soumare is expected to put pen to paper on a three-year contract should the deal be completed, securing his long-term future in English football.

The Senegalese midfielder joined Sheffield United on loan from Braga last summer and quickly established himself as a key figure in the team’s midfield. His energy, ball-winning ability and composure in possession earned praise throughout the campaign and significantly boosted his reputation in England.

Although Sheffield United benefited from his services during the season, it now appears unlikely that Soumare will return to Portugal, with Stoke City ready to make a permanent investment in the talented midfielder.

For Stoke City, the move would represent a major addition as the club looks to strengthen its squad ahead of the new campaign. The Potters have been actively searching for quality reinforcements and believe Soumare possesses the attributes needed to thrive in the Championship.

The midfielder’s experience in both Portuguese and English football is seen as a valuable asset, while his age suggests he still has considerable room for development.

Soumare remains under contract with SC Braga until 2027, placing the Portuguese club in a strong negotiating position. However, the growing interest in the player and his desire to continue playing in England have reportedly accelerated discussions between the two clubs.

A permanent move to Stoke City would offer the Senegal international an opportunity to continue his progress in a familiar environment while gaining more experience in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.

If the transfer is finalized in the coming days, Soumare will become one of Stoke City’s notable acquisitions of the summer transfer window and another Senegalese talent continuing his football journey in England.