Simon Banza Faces Key Decision as Al Jazira and Braga Agree €10M Deal

Al Jazira and SC Braga have agreed to a €10 million deal for striker Simon Banza, but the 28-year-old forward has not yet approved the transfer.

WHAT HAPPENED?

SC Braga and Al Jazira, a club from the United Arab Emirates, have finalized terms for Simon Banza to make a permanent move this summer. While the deal between the clubs is settled, Banza still needs to give his approval before the transfer can be completed. Banza is not part of Braga manager Carlos Vicens’ plans for the new season, making a move imminent.

Last season, Banza played on loan at Trabzonspor, where he scored 22 goals and provided six assists in 36 appearances.

SC BRAGA AND BANZA’S SEASON IN CONTEXT

Braga finished fourth in the last Primeira Liga season, just outside of the Champions League spots. Simon Banza was out on loan for most of the year, but his form in Turkey was strong.

Despite his success at Trabzonspor, where he finished as the team’s top scorer, Banza remains surplus to requirements at Braga. The Portuguese side will benefit financially from the sale, which could help them strengthen ahead of the new campaign. Additionally, Braga will play in the Europa League qualifiers, potentially increasing the club’s visibility and competitiveness.

Braga’s first match of the Primeira Liga season is against Tondela, with the team aiming to climb above rivals like Vitória SC and challenge the top three.

WHAT NEXT FOR BANZA AND AL JAZIRA?

If Banza agrees to join Al Jazira, he would become one of the most high-profile signings for the Emirati club. Al Jazira recently finished mid-table in the UAE Pro League and are looking to build a side that can challenge for the title. Their season will begin shortly against Al-Nasr, who finished directly above them last year.

If Banza declines the move, Braga will need to find another solution for the forward, while Al Jazira will need to explore alternative attacking options before the transfer window closes.