Asante Kotoko receive transfer boost after Wafa forward Justice Torsutey eyeing Reds move
Asante Kotoko have received a transfer boost in their pursuit of Wafa forward Justice Torsutey ahead of next season. But Medeama and Ash Gold could push Kotoko to the length as both clubs knee on the forward.
The Ghana Premier League giants have struggled to replace Kwame Opoku who switched camp for Algerian outfit USM Alger in the January transfer window for a fee of around €500,000.
Also see: Zamalek set to open negotiations with Asante Kotoko over a move forward Kwame Opoku
Kwame Opoku’s presence made Kotoko clear title favourites scoring seven times that helped the club to the submit of the Ghana Premier League table. His departure is touted a major factor for Kotoko’s failure on this season’s Ghanaian top flight league where they were overtaken by their rivals Hearts of Oak in the turn of the season.
The Porcupine Warriors brought in Andy Kumi from Unistar Academy on 4-and-half year deal and free agent Michael Vinicius to fill the void created by Kwame Poku’s departure but there is still gulf between the now USM Alger striker and his replacements.
The new signings started well at the Ghana Premier League second placed side with Kumi netting each time in his first two games however injury hampered his progress and since returning to full fitness, the 21-year has never discovered his previous form.
Don’t miss out on: Asante Kotoko confirm interest in Kwame Opoku as USM Alger beating Zamalek and ES Setif to Ghanaian International
On the side of Michael Vinicius, who is not related to Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr, he opened a good account of himself netting twice in his accumulated 75 minutes of football before surprisingly parting ways with Kotoko almost three months into his 2-and-half year deal.
“Asante Kotoko and Michael Vinicius have mutually parted ways,” Kotoko announced.
“The Brazilian forward, who scored twice in 75 minutes of action, requested for a three-month leave without pay to help address some personal and family issues in Brazil.
“These issues have prevented him from giving his very best to the club and he is unhappy about the situation.
“Management however thought it wise to mutually terminate and help him fully focus on the pressing issues. We wish Michael all the best in his future endeavours.”
Related Article: Kotoko legend reveals Zamalek target Kwame Opoku vows to score against ES Setif
Kotoko failed to achieve their prime target of the season- to lift the Ghana Premier League for the first time in seven years. They were beaten to the title by Hearts of Oak who now get the nod for African Champions League for the first time since 2008.
To fight for the title next season, the Kumasi based side are planning for next term’s activities and they can do that without finding the perfect man to replace Kwame Opoku and strengthening their attacking lines.
They have been linked with a move for a couple of Ghana Premier League forwards Gladson Awako, Diawisie Taylor, Kwame Peprah and Justice Torsutey. The reports on Awako who is reportedly close to sealing a move to Hearts of Oak, Peprah and Taylor seem to be just rumours with no official confirmation from either the players or Asante Kotoko.
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However, the reports on Torsutey appear more concrete as Kotoko boosted ahead of the transfer after the Wafa attacker stating publicly his readiness to join the Porcupine Warriors.
“I’m ever ready to join Asante Kotoko if they really need my services, Torsutey highlighted in an interview with Radio Station Spice FM in Takoradi of Ghana on Friday afternoon.
The Wafa ace has had a quick transition in football career after dedication of more time for the game instead of military. He joined Wafa in the second round of this season from military background. The Ghanaian International has risen to prominence since making his debut having eventually become undroppable at Sogakope.
Torsutey came in to replace Emmanuel Lomotey who left his Ghana Premier League top scorer position with 8 goals in the first half of the season for Algerian league leaders ES Setif.
Torsutey never looked back upon his arrival and scored 5 goals in the half including an away game against Kotoko. It was at this point Kotoko became convinced of the Torsutey’s potentials.
However, they could be challenged for the Torsutey’s signature as Medeama SC and Ash Gold have all shortlisted the Ghanaian International in their transfer priorities.
Kotoko now have the upper hand after the player himself declaring a move to the Baba Yara Stadium next season.
