New developments have surfaced regarding the enigmatic disappearance of Christ Inai Oulai from Trabzonspor, with reports indicating he is set to depart for his transfer to Fiorentina later tonight.
The midfielder was anticipated to arrive in Italy today, and a flight from Istanbul to Florence had been arranged. However, this flight was canceled due to the need for further discussions.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – JUNE 30: Christ Inao Oulai #26 of Côte d’Ivoire controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match against Norway at Dallas Stadium on June 30, 2026, in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
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Additionally, there are some bizarre reports from Turkiye suggesting that a person impersonating a Trabzonspor representative picked him up from the airport as he arrived in Istanbul from the Ivory Coast.
Sky Sport Italia reports that this was not a kidnapping attempt. Instead, Oulai wished to consult a lawyer he trusts outside of both clubs to thoroughly examine the contracts.
Oulai sought assurance regarding his move to Fiorentina
TORONTO, ONTARIO – JUNE 19: Christ Inao Oulai of Côte d’Ivoire addresses the media during the training and press conference ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match against Germany on June 19, 2026, in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
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According to reports from Sportitalia and SpaceViola, the contracts have now been reviewed and signed, making the player ready to travel later this evening.
The deal is reported to be valued at €30 million including potential add-ons, with Trabzonspor also set to receive a 20 percent share of any future sale fees.
The 20-year-old was acquired from Bastia last year for €5.5 million, alongside a 20 percent cut of the profit, ensuring that Trabzonspor will benefit from the upcoming move as well.
Despite only recently celebrating his 20th birthday in April, Oulai already boasts 13 senior caps for the Ivory Coast and participated in the World Cup held in the USA, facing teams like Canada and Mexico.
Oulai made 31 appearances for Trabzonspor, netting two goals and providing four assists.