Omanghana
Ghana international midfielder Elisha Owusu is reportedly set to leave French Ligue 1 club AJ Auxerre for newly promoted Turkish side Erzurumspor.
The 28-year-old defensive midfielder is expected to complete a permanent transfer to the Turkish Süper Lig newcomers after the two clubs reached an agreement worth approximately €1 million, excluding performance-related bonuses.
The proposed move will bring Owusu’s three-and-a-half-year association with Auxerre to an end, despite the midfielder having one year remaining on his contract. His current deal with the French club was scheduled to expire in June 2027.
Erzurumspor Win Race for Ghanaian Midfielder
Owusu attracted reported interest from other European clubs during the transfer window, including German Bundesliga side TSG Hoffenheim.
Hoffenheim were said to be monitoring the Ghanaian as part of their search for midfield reinforcements. However, Erzurumspor emerged as the strongest contender and moved closer to securing his signature.
The Turkish club recently gained promotion to the Süper Lig and is strengthening its squad ahead of its return to the country’s top division. Owusu’s experience in France, Belgium and international football is expected to make him an important addition to the team.
The transfer remained subject to the completion of a medical examination and the finalization of personal terms, according to reports published on August 17.
Auxerre Set to Make Profit From Transfer
Auxerre signed Owusu from Belgian club KAA Gent in January 2023 for a reported fee of approximately €500,000.
The proposed €1 million transfer, together with potential bonuses, would allow the French club to recover twice its initial investment before any additional payments are considered.
Owusu’s estimated market value has been placed at around €4 million. However, the remaining length of his contract and Auxerre’s ongoing squad restructuring may have influenced the negotiated fee.
The midfielder’s departure had appeared increasingly likely after he remained an unused substitute during Auxerre’s recent 1-0 friendly victory over German club Werder Bremen.
Owusu Became an Important Figure at Auxerre
Owusu quickly developed into a dependable member of Auxerre’s midfield following his arrival from Gent.
Known for his positional discipline, ball recovery and ability to protect the defense, he provided balance in the middle of the pitch during a demanding period for the French club.
His spell included both Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 football. He played an important role as Auxerre navigated relegation, fought for promotion and returned to France’s top flight.
Owusu’s consistency and leadership also earned him the captain’s armband. He served as one of the team’s senior figures until May, underlining the trust placed in him by the technical staff and his teammates.
His ability to interrupt opposition attacks and keep possession moving made him an effective link between Auxerre’s defense and more attack-minded players.
New Challenge in Turkish Football
A move to Erzurumspor would introduce Owusu to the third major European football environment of his senior career.
He began his development within the Olympique Lyon academy before playing for Lyon’s reserve team. A successful loan spell with Sochaux gave him regular senior experience and helped establish his reputation as a composed defensive midfielder.
Owusu joined Gent in 2019 and made more than 80 league appearances for the Belgian club before moving to Auxerre four years later.
Turkish football will present a different challenge, with its physical intensity, passionate support and highly competitive domestic league. Erzurumspor will be looking to Owusu to provide stability and top-level experience as the club attempts to consolidate its position in the Süper Lig.
For the Ghanaian, the move should offer an opportunity to secure regular playing time and retain an important role ahead of future Black Stars assignments.
Black Stars Performances Strengthened His Reputation
Owusu has remained part of Ghana’s senior national team since making his international debut in 2022.
The midfielder further strengthened his reputation by appearing in three of Ghana’s four matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His involvement on the global stage reportedly attracted interest from European clubs searching for an experienced defensive midfielder.
Owusu’s qualities are particularly valuable to the Black Stars because of his ability to operate as a holding midfielder, cover spaces in front of the defense and allow more creative teammates to advance.
Consistent performances in Turkey could help him maintain his place in Ghana’s midfield as the national team prepares for its next international assignments.
Important Addition for Erzurumspor
Erzurumspor’s return to the Turkish top flight will require the club to build a squad capable of handling stronger opponents and the demands of a long domestic campaign.
Owusu brings experience from Ligue 1, Ligue 2, Belgium’s top division and international football. His leadership background at Auxerre could also prove useful within a team adjusting to life in the Süper Lig.
Although a Bundesliga move appeared to be among his possible options, the Ghanaian has chosen a transfer that may offer a clearer role and greater responsibility.
Once the remaining formalities are completed, Owusu will begin a new chapter in Turkey while Auxerre receive a profit on a player who developed into one of their most trusted midfielders and leaders.
Source: Omanghana
