Karamoko Dembele, once likened to superstar Lionel Messi has been axed by Ligue 1 side Brest mid-way through his contract after impressing at League One Blackpool, in a boost to Championship sides Derby County, Bristol City, Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United that had been linked with a move.
The 21-year-old had a contract with the French side until 2026, but they have opted to break the deal two years early to move him out of the club.
At one stage in his career, he was tipped as one of the up-and-coming wonderkids that could go on to emulate some of the best in the game. However, his promising youth career has yet to produce any significant results.
How has Karamoko Dembele career progressed to date?
He began his career at Celtic at the age of 10, becoming part of their first team training at the age of 13.
He continued to impress and made his senior bow at 16 years old. However, he struggled to maintain his momentum and was released at the age of 19.
Brest picked him up, handing him a four-year deal. He then departed to Blackpool on loan impressing in his spell for the Seasiders.
Dembele picked up the Players’ Player of the Year, Supporters’ Player of the Year awards at their annual end-of-season award ceremony after making 47 appearances, and contributing nine goals and 14 assists.
He returned to Brest, where they have now opted to release him.
Where next for the former Wonderkid?
According to SportBible, Championship side Bristol City as well as Derby County who were recently promoted from League One have shown an interest in the player. As well at this previously, Leeds United (HITC) and Sheffield Wednesday (The Star) have also previously been linked to the former Celtic youth.
It is clear that the player has talent, however he has struggled to find the right environment to unlock it. His best spell to date has come at Blackpool in League One, so a natural progression would be to move into the second tier of English football.
It is somewhat unusual that Brest have opted to release him, as they would have likely been able to sell him for a fee following his impressive loan, which could indicate some other reason for the departure.