Samsunspor Start Talks to Sign Cagliari Midfielder Antoine Makoumbou

Samsunspor have started talks with Cagliari to sign midfielder Antoine Makoumbou. Schalke 04 and Panathinaikos are also interested in the player, competing for his signature.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Samsunspor have begun negotiations with Cagliari for 26-year-old midfielder Antoine Makoumbou, who has played for Cagliari since 2022. The Congolese international has drawn interest from various clubs, with Panathinaikos and Schalke 04 making official approaches. Makoumbou has an estimated market value of around €3.5 million following his strong Serie A performances. Reports suggest all three clubs want to sign him before the 2025/26 campaign begins.

THE WIDER CONTEXT

Samsunspor finished 3rd in the Turkish Süper Lig last season, qualifying for European football this season. The club is looking to strengthen their squad. Antoine Makoumbou played 34 league games for Cagliari last season, playing a crucial role in their midfield. Cagliari narrowly avoided relegation, finishing 15th in Serie A, just four points above the drop zone. Meanwhile, Schalke 04 ended mid-table in the 2. Bundesliga, and Panathinaikos finished second in the Greek Super League, securing a place in European qualifiers.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MAKOUMBOU?

Samsunspor, Schalke 04, and Panathinaikos are expected to push for a resolution to Makoumbou’s future. A move to Turkey would see him join a team aiming to build a strong Süper Lig presence, while Panathinaikos offer European competitions. Schalke 04 offer a chance to help the club return to the Bundesliga. Samsunspor’s next game is the Süper Lig opener. The transfer race is likely to be decided soon as all the parties seek clarity.