Barca, Juventus & Sunderland: The biggest moves by Ghanaian players on Transfer Deadline Day

Transfer Deadline Day in Europe saw several Ghanaian footballers making significant moves to new clubs, with standout transfers to Sunderland, Juventus, and Barcelona. Here’s a breakdown of the most notable moves:

Salis Samed to Sunderland

Salis Abdul Samed, the RC Lens midfielder, has joined Sunderland on a season-long loan after being sidelined from Lens’ main squad. Samed, who had been training with the reserves, was not included in Lens’ matchday squads for the 2024-25 Ligue 1 season. Despite interest from Montpellier, Sunderland provided the 24-year-old Ghanaian international an escape route, offering him a chance to prove himself in the English Championship.

Kristjaan Speakman, Sunderland’s Sporting Director, expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating, “Salis is a disciplined defensive midfielder with a unique profile that will add depth to our midfield. His experiences in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League will be invaluable as he adapts to English football.”

Samed began his career at the JMG Academy in Côte d'Ivoire before moving to France with Clermont Foot in 2019. He was instrumental in Clermont's promotion to Ligue 1 and played a key role in RC Lens’ second-place finish last season, which secured their UEFA Champions League spot.

Felix Afena-Gyan to Juventus

Felix Afena-Gyan, once hailed as a promising talent, has made a surprising move to Juventus on a season-long loan from Cremonese. Afena-Gyan, who has been somewhat under the radar in recent seasons, is looking to revive his career with this move, although his exact role at Juventus remains unclear. There is speculation that he might feature more prominently for Juventus’ youth side, but his potential impact on the senior squad cannot be ruled out.

The 20-year-old forward expressed his excitement on social media, tweeting, "It's an honor to join the Bianconeri. So grateful for the opportunity @juventusfc. Can't wait to put on the jersey."

Afena-Gyan’s career began at Roma, where he made 48 appearances before moving to Cremonese in 2022. His time at Cremonese saw him gain valuable experience in both Serie A and Serie B, and he now faces a new challenge in Turin.

David Oduro to Barcelona

David Oduro, an 18-year-old left-back from Accra Lions, has made headlines by securing a move to Barcelona’s La Masia. After successful trials at several European clubs, including Chelsea and Barcelona, Oduro has signed a three-year contract with Barça Atlètic, keeping him at the club until 2027.

Oduro, often compared to Alphonso Davies for his speed and offensive capabilities, made his mark in the Ghanaian Premier League with Accra Lions, where he played 50 games and scored one goal. He is also a Ghana U20 international and is known for his ability to link up well with teammates and contribute to the attack.

The young defender will join Barcelona’s reserve team in the coming days, where he will continue his development at one of the world’s most prestigious football academies.

Kasim Adams to Servette

Kasim Adams, a towering center-back, has returned to Switzerland by joining Servette after leaving Hoffenheim as a free agent. However, his European ambitions were dashed when Servette lost 3-2 on aggregate to Chelsea in the Europa Conference League qualifiers. Adams, who previously played for Young Boys in Switzerland, will now focus on domestic competitions with Servette.

These transfers mark significant steps in the careers of these Ghanaian players, each looking to make an impact at their new clubs.