Ghanaian international Daniel Amartey is edging closer to a return to competitive football after nearly a year without a club following his exit from Turkish Super League side Besiktas in 2024, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
The versatile midfielder and defender has been keeping fit with personal trainers while carefully weighing his next move, with the ultimate goal of securing a place in Ghana’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Amartey revealed: “I have been training relentlessly with personal coaches, keeping myself at peak fitness. I am calm, focused, and ready to return to competitive football. I won’t rush into any deal, but I’m determined to find the right club that aligns with my ambitions.”
Amartey’s time away from the pitch followed a complicated exit from Besiktas, where he had one year left on his contract.
Reports of a stalled transfer to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Shabab FC created a stir, but the player denied any wrongdoing, describing the allegations as “completely untrue.”
The 30-year-old, who previously starred in Leicester City’s historic 2015/16 Premier League-winning squad, made 27 appearances for Besiktas in the 2023/24 season and remains a valuable asset with his wealth of experience in top-flight football. His market value is currently estimated at €2.5 million.
When discussing potential destinations, he added: “There are conversations ongoing, and I am exploring all options carefully. My main goal is clear, to get back on the pitch, perform at my best, and secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup squad.”
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Recent reports have linked him to relegated Ipswich Town FC in England, as well as Turkish Super League side Trabzonspor, which showed interest last summer.
Regardless of where he lands, Amartey’s focus remains firmly on re-establishing himself at club level and ensuring he remains in contention for international duty with the Black Stars.