Jack Diarra in Tunis, but Al-Merreikh came very close to sealing the deal

The Jack Diarra saga has finally come to an end. The 18-year-old Burkinabè prodigy has signed a contract with Espérance de Tunis, tying him to the club until 2028. But behind the scenes, Sudan’s Al Merreikh was just inches away from completing the transfer.

Al Merreikh Sporting Club didn’t wait for other clubs to get organized. According to our sources, the Sudanese side was the very first to open talks with Salitas FC and the Diarra camp. Negotiations were well advanced, with an offer estimated at $200,000 and a 20% sell-on bonus. The deal was all but done. But an unexpected twist changed everything: a French club entered the fray, offering a two-week trial. Jack Diarra seized the opportunity, hoping to make his mark in Europe. He flew to France to try his luck... but was not retained. Back to square one.

In the meantime, Espérance de Tunis entered the race—backed by a clear and ambitious project. The decisive argument? The chance to play in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, provided the club advances past the first round. That prospect was enticing. For a young talent hungry for the spotlight, the choice became obvious.

Al Merreikh, the quiet pioneer, may well have regrets. They were the first to believe in Jack Diarra. But in football, boldness isn’t always enough. Espérance struck at just the right moment.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr