Swedish top-flight side Mjällby AIF has turned down a €3.3 million bid from Turkish club Istanbul Başakşehir for rising Gambian forward Abdoulie Manneh, according to sources close to the club.
The 20-year-old has been one of the standout performers in the Allsvenskan this season, scoring six goals and recording two assists in just 15 appearances. His electric pace, composure in front of goal, and ability to stretch defences have made him one of the most sought-after young players in the Scandinavian league.
Gambian journalist Foday Manneh reports that Manneh’s performances have not gone unnoticed. Several European clubs, including Fenerbahçe, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Brentford, Anderlecht, and Mainz, have been monitoring his progress closely.
Despite the growing interest, Mjällby is not in a rush to cash in. The Swedish club sees Manneh as a crucial part of its campaign and is reportedly only open to letting him go if an exceptional offer arrives. Manneh remains under contract with Mjällby until 2027, giving the club a strong bargaining position.
Still, Bundesliga side Mainz is said to be weighing up a renewed offer and could test Mjällby’s resolve before the window shuts.
Manneh’s journey from Gambia to Sweden has been marked by steady progression and hard work. His rise is yet another example of the growing impact of Gambian talent in European football, and with interest building, a move to a bigger league may only be a matter of time.
For now, though, Mjällby are holding firm and Abdoulie Manneh remains a player to watch.
