DONE DEAL: In dezelfde transferperiode wist KAA Gent de Belgische aanvaller Dante Vanzeir te strikken van de New York Red Bulls. De transfer, afgerond op 24 januari 2025, had een waarde van €30 miljoen. De 26-jarige Vanzeir keerde na twee seizoenen terug naar België…

KAA Gent has been active in the transfer market, securing several new players to strengthen their squad for the ongoing season. One of the notable acquisitions is Cape Verdean winger Hélio Varela, who signed a four-year contract with the Belgian club. Varela, 22, previously played for Portimonense in Portugal, where he scored six goals and provided three assists during the 2023-2024 season. Despite his contributions, Portimonense faced relegation. Varela’s impressive performances attracted interest from multiple clubs, but KAA Gent successfully secured his signature. He will wear the number 29 shirt for the Buffalos. Expressing his enthusiasm, Varela stated, “It’s incredible to be able to play for KAA Gent. I had the chance to watch the match against Silkeborg in this beautiful stadium, and I hope to contribute to many more victories. My goal is to play my best football here and show the fans what I can do.” 

In January 2025, KAA Gent bolstered their attacking options by signing Ivorian striker Vakoun Bayo from Celtic. The 24-year-old forward joined on a contract until 2025 for an undisclosed fee. Bayo had previously been on loan at Toulouse FC, where he scored 13 goals and provided four assists in 36 games. Gent’s sports manager, Tim Matthys, highlighted Bayo’s qualities, stating, “Vakoun is a fast and agile striker who is very strong offensively. He is a player who will offer our coach many opportunities up front.” 

Another significant addition is Gambian forward Momodou Sonko, who signed a contract with KAA Gent on January 29, 2024, lasting until 2028. The transfer fee was approximately €8 million, making it a record signing for the club. Sonko made his Allsvenskan debut on October 2, 2022, and quickly gained attention for his performances. 

In the same transfer window, KAA Gent secured the services of Belgian forward Dante Vanzeir from the New York Red Bulls. The transfer, completed on January 24, 2025, was valued at €3 million. Vanzeir, 26, returned to Belgium after two seasons in Major League Soccer, where he had a challenging spell. His addition is expected to enhance Gent’s attacking options. 

Furthermore, on September 4, 2024, Hungarian winger Zalán Vancsa joined KAA Gent on loan from Lommel SK, with an option to buy. Vancsa, a Hungarian international, is anticipated to add depth to the team’s midfield and attacking positions. 

These signings reflect KAA Gent’s commitment to strengthening their squad with young and talented players as they aim for success in domestic and European competitions.