Ivorian midfielder Axel Kouamé set for AIK Stockholm move after breakout season in Finland

Ivorian midfielder Axel Kouamé is on the verge of completing a transfer to AIK Fotboll Stockholm after the Swedish club reached an agreement with Inter Turku.

The 21-year-old is expected to sign a three-and-a-half-year deal that will keep him at AIK until June 2028.

According to sources close to the negotiations, discussions between the two clubs concluded successfully this week, paving the way for Kouamé to finalise his switch.

The player is scheduled to arrive in Sweden on Friday to undergo a medical before putting pen to paper.

Kouamé’s move comes after months of speculation over his future.

The midfielder had attracted strong interest from several European sides, most notably AS Saint-Étienne, who monitored him closely since last winter but failed to present a concrete offer.

Canadian side Vancouver also tabled a lucrative financial package, but Kouamé declined to pursue that opportunity.

Another serious bidder was Spain’s Club Deportivo Castellón, which reportedly proposed a deal worth around €1.2 million, including bonuses, on a four-year contract.

Despite the appeal of playing in Spain, Kouamé and his representatives were ultimately convinced by AIK’s project and the chance to develop further in Sweden’s top division.

The Ivorian enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season in Finland, where he became a standout performer for Inter Turku.

In 30 appearances, he registered seven goals and 14 assists, showcasing his ability to influence games both as a creator and a finisher.

His dynamic style and vision in midfield drew attention across Europe, cementing his status as one of the most promising young talents to emerge from the Finnish league.

AIK’s acquisition of Kouamé is seen as a significant boost as the Stockholm side continues its campaign in the Allsvenskan.

The club has been eager to strengthen its midfield options, and Kouamé’s versatility, coupled with his productivity, is expected to make him a valuable addition to the squad.

For the player himself, the transfer represents a major step forward in his career.

At just 21, Kouamé has already demonstrated maturity and consistency, qualities that AIK hopes will translate seamlessly into Swedish football.

His decision to choose Stockholm over other offers highlights both the club’s pulling power and the player’s ambition to progress in a competitive environment.

Once the formalities are complete, Kouamé will join AIK ahead of their upcoming fixture against IK Sirius, where fans will be eager to see how quickly the young Ivorian can adapt and make an impact.