Gambian teenage sensation Muhamadou Kanteh has no intention of leaving FC Shakhtar Donetsk this summer despite attracting widespread interest from clubs across Europe and the Middle East, Footy-Africa can confrim.
The 19-year-old striker, who recently signed a new five-year contract extension with the Ukrainian champions until 2031, remains fully committed to earning a place in Shakhtar’s first team rather than seeking a loan move elsewhere.
Speculation over Kanteh’s future intensified following his outstanding debut campaign with Shakhtar’s Under-19 side, but his representative, Alexei Eremenko, has dismissed suggestions that the youngster could leave the club during the current transfer window.
Speaking exclusively, Eremenko made it clear that both he and the player believe Shakhtar offers the ideal environment for Kanteh’s continued development.
“At the moment, he is at Shakhtar. Let’s see what the future will bring. We have plenty of interest from big European clubs and also a few from the Middle East, but Kanteh and I are keen on Shakhtar Donetsk because they know how to bring up young players.”
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The experienced agent stressed that the club’s proven record of developing emerging talent is the main reason behind the decision to stay.
“They will develop him. Kanteh is happy at Shakhtar and wants to fight for a spot in the first team.”
Kanteh’s performances have generated significant attention from clubs in England, Portugal, France, Belgium, Germany, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, all of whom have been monitoring the prolific forward following his remarkable rise in Ukraine.
The former Wagadu FC striker enjoyed a sensational 2025/26 season with Shakhtar’s Under-19 team, scoring 28 goals in 28 league matches to lead the club to the Ukrainian Under-19 Championship. His extraordinary goalscoring record also saw him become Shakhtar’s highest scorer in a single Under-19 league season.
Rather than pursuing an immediate move, Kanteh has chosen to continue his development at one of Eastern Europe’s most successful clubs, where he hopes to force his way into the senior squad through hard work and consistent performances.
His recent contract extension until 2031 underlines Shakhtar’s confidence in his long-term potential and reinforces the club’s commitment to nurturing one of Gambian football’s brightest young talents.
