FC Sion Braced For Summer Battle As Championship Clubs Circle Defender

FC Sion look set to lose centre-back Gora Diouf for nothing this summer as his contract edges towards expiry – and interest from the Championship continues to grow.

The 23-year-old Senegalese defender, who signed for the Swiss side in 2022 from Étoile Lusitana, is attracting attention across Europe after a solid campaign in the Swiss second tier. Reports in Africa Foot suggest he is unwilling to extend his current deal, which expires in June, leaving Sion vulnerable to losing him without compensation.

Championship side West Bromwich Albion are reported to be “particularly interested” in landing the defender, with claims that contact has already been made with his representatives. The Baggies are currently the only English club named in the race, but they are not alone in their pursuit.

Diouf has also drawn significant interest from the Turkish Süper Lig. Trabzonspor and Samsunspor are both credited with “concrete offers” for the defender, who has made 24 appearances for Sion this season. While the financial details of those offers remain undisclosed, both clubs are said to be actively pushing for his signature, leaving West Brom under pressure to act swiftly if they hope to stay in the race.

Despite a challenging season overall for Sion, Diouf has impressed scouts with his athleticism and positional intelligence, making him a viable free transfer for clubs seeking value in the summer market. His performances in the Swiss Challenge League have earned plaudits for consistency and maturity beyond his years.

The report indicates that Diouf will now enter a critical phase of negotiations as his camp evaluates the best next step. A move to England’s second tier could offer a platform to continue his development, while Turkey provides an established route for African players into European football’s top leagues.

Sion have not publicly commented on the speculation, but their hopes of retaining the player appear slim with time running out to secure a renewal.

Site Opinion

FC Sion are caught in a familiar dilemma—nurturing a talented young player only to see him depart for nothing. In Diouf, they have a defender who has developed well over two seasons and now seems ready for the next step. While a move to Turkey might offer immediate top-flight football, the Championship represents a pathway to Premier League exposure, especially with a club like West Brom known for player development. The Swiss club’s hands are tied unless they can pull off a late contract miracle. Either way, Diouf’s exit looks increasingly inevitable.