Trabzonspor sign striker Ali Habesoglu as finishing problems continue

Trabzonspor have signed striker Ali Habesoglu from Turkish club Bodrum FK during the current summer transfer window, in a move that comes as the team look to address their problems in front of goal.

The club confirmed that Habesoglu has agreed a three-year contract, with Trabzonspor holding the option to extend the deal by a further season.

The 21-year-old forward is a recognised centre-forward and arrives after scoring regularly in Turkey’s domestic competitions. His recruitment follows concerns over the number of chances being missed by Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu, opportunities created by Egypt international Mohamed Salah.

Habesoglu began his career in the youth system at Hatayspor before going on to play for Somaspor and Ayvalıkgucu Belediyespor. He joined Bodrum FK in 2025.

During the 2024-25 campaign with Ayvalıkgucu Belediyespor, he scored 18 goals in 26 league appearances. He then found the net 12 times in the league for Bodrum FK during the 2025-26 season.

The forward has also represented Turkiye at international youth level. He has played for the Turkiye Under-21 side and previously featured for the Under-19 team.

The transfer was completed during the summer window, which ended in the Turkish league on Friday, 4 September.

Trabzonspor are currently 11th in the Turkish league table with four points. The club had already announced the departure of manager Fatih Tekke before confirming Habesoglu’s arrival.

The signing gives Trabzonspor another option in attack as they seek to improve their efficiency in the final third. Onuachu has been involved in the team’s attacking work, but the club have been frustrated by missed opportunities, including chances created by Mohamed Salah.

Habesoglu’s recent scoring record will therefore be central to expectations surrounding his arrival. His 18-goal season with Ayvalıkgucu Belediyespor was followed by a 12-goal league campaign at Bodrum FK, providing Trabzonspor with a forward who has produced goals at successive clubs.

The agreement also gives the club some longer-term security, with the initial contract running for three years and the additional extension clause allowing Trabzonspor to retain him for a fourth season if they choose to do so.