Ghana midfielder Kwasi Sibo has suffered a setback in his search for a new club after Genclerbirligi abandoned plans to sign him.
The Turkish Super Lig side had reached a preliminary agreement with the free agent earlier this month, with Sibo reportedly expected to join on a two-year contract that included the option of a further season.
However, the Ankara-based club have now decided against completing the move after choosing to bring in Senegalese midfielder Cheikh Niasse instead.
Niasse, 26, has joined Genclerbirligi on loan from Italian club Hellas Verona. The agreement includes an option for the Turkish side to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.
The Senegal international made 20 Serie A appearances for Hellas Verona last season.
The decision is a frustrating development for Sibo, who had reportedly identified Genclerbirligi as his preferred destination despite receiving more financially attractive offers from other clubs.
The 28-year-old became a free agent after leaving Spanish club Real Oviedo, where he spent the previous two seasons. His performances for the Spanish side and Ghana’s Black Stars had attracted interest from clubs in a number of regions.
There had reportedly been approaches from teams in England, France, Egypt and the Middle East, but Sibo had favoured a move to Genclerbirligi.
Sibo also played a significant part in Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, appearing in all four of the team’s matches.
His involvement in the national side’s tournament campaign, together with his form in Spain, had helped strengthen interest in the midfielder before Genclerbirligi changed their plans.
The club’s decision means Sibo must now consider alternative options as he looks to continue his career after leaving Real Oviedo. The proposed move to Turkey had appeared to offer him the chance to secure a two-year deal, with the possibility of remaining at the club for an additional season.
Instead, Genclerbirligi have opted to use their available place in midfield on Niasse, who will spend the season in Ankara after making 20 league appearances for Hellas Verona in the previous campaign.
Sibo’s next move remains undecided, despite reported interest from several countries and his established role with Ghana.
