Strasbourg’s pursuit of Famalicao defender Ibrahima Ba has ended after a problem was discovered during his medical examination, according to L’Équipe. The 21-year-old Senegalese centre-back was set to join the Ligue 1 club on a four-year contract, but the deal has been cancelled as a result of the undisclosed medical issue.
Reports from Portuguese media had indicated an agreement worth €15 million, excluding bonuses, had been reached between Strasbourg and Famalicao for Ba’s transfer. The player was expected to return to Portugal in the coming hours following the collapse of the move. Ba had not featured in Famalicao’s last three matches due to an unspecified injury, raising initial concerns about his fitness.
Ba came through the youth ranks at Porto before joining Famalicao in 2022. He quickly established himself as a key player for the Portuguese side, making 33 appearances across all competitions last season. His performances attracted the attention of several European clubs, with Strasbourg emerging as the frontrunners for his signature.
Strasbourg manager Hugo Oliveira had previously worked with Ba at Famalicao, reportedly being a key factor in the club’s desire to bring the defender to France. Oliveira will now need to reassess his options in the centre-back position as the new Ligue 1 season approaches. The cancellation of the deal represents a setback for Strasbourg, who were hoping to strengthen their defensive options with the promising Senegalese international. This leaves Strasbourg looking for alternative defensive reinforcements before the start of the season.
