While the European Championship has entered the knockout phase in Germany, the teams from the Jupiler Pro League are busy developing their transfer plans. This is also the case at Antwerp FC. The Great Old is still going to have quite a busy summer.
Antwerp has had a rather disappointing season in the JPL. RAFC ended up last in the Champions’ Play-Offs, which means they will not be playing European football next season. Although that does not necessarily have to be a disadvantage. The Great Old is facing a kind of transition year.
For example, coach Mark van Bommel has now said goodbye, who was replaced by Jonas De Roeck. In addition, the selection is likely to undergo a lot of tinkering. The general expectation is that Antwerp will sell several strong holders in the summer trade.
At least one strong player gone
Strong man Sven Jaecques confirmed this earlier this week. “There will definitely be one or two major outgoing transfers – the names are known – and that is nothing negative. It gives oxygen to the organization again. Investments can be made in new players again.”
The names Jaecques is referring to appear to be those of Mandela Keita and George Ilenikhena. Although so would guys like Jean Butez and Michel-Ange Balikwisha. There also seems to be some movement around the latter. There would be interest from France for the wing attacker.
French subtop beckons to Balikwisha
Transfer watcher Sacha Tavolieri reports that Lille OSC has set its sights on Balikwisha. The club from Lille would really appreciate his profile. In addition, his agents are said to have good contact with strong man Olivier Letang. Balikwisha himself would be charmed by the interest, although he prefers a club that is directly qualified for the Champions League. Let’s wait and see if a concrete offer will be put on the table soon. In the meantime, RC Lens is also said to be following the file closely.
