Gambian forward Abdoulie Manneh has completed his move from Swedish champions Mjällby AIF to Belgian top-flight side Cercle Brugge in a deal that could reach approximately €5.5 million, including bonuses for playing 50% of the matches, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
According to a source close to the player, the 21-year-old will initially join Cercle Brugge on loan, with the agreement including an obligation to make the transfer permanent once the stipulated conditions are met. Personal terms had already been agreed, with Manneh spending the past few days in Belgium to finalise the move.
The transfer represents another significant step in the Gambian forward’s rapidly developing European career after several previous attempts to leave Mjällby failed to materialise.
Manneh had previously been close to moves to Greek giants Olympiacos and English Championship side Birmingham City, but both transfers ultimately collapsed, forcing the youngster to remain in Sweden.
Gambian forward Abdoulie Manneh closing in on Cercle Brugge move
Despite those setbacks, Manneh continued to impress with Mjällby and played an important role in the club’s historic 2025/26 title-winning campaign.
Mjällby had hoped to retain the forward for their UEFA Champions League qualifying campaign and wanted him to feature in their final-round qualifier against SK Slovan Bratislava before completing his departure.
The move to Cercle Brugge also has an interesting connection to French Ligue 1 side AS Monaco, with the two clubs sharing the same ownership structure. Monaco had considered bringing Manneh directly to France but ultimately opted for a more competitive development pathway, with Cercle Brugge providing the Belgian platform for the young Gambian to continue his progression.
The initial loan-to-buy structure could eventually make Manneh one of the most valuable Gambian transfers in recent years, particularly if the performance-related bonuses are triggered.
After overcoming two previous failed transfers, Manneh has finally secured his move away from Mjällby and will now begin a new chapter in Belgium.
