Cyprus Football Update: 25th July 2025

AEL Limassol: Forestieri and Keller Arrive

AEL Limassol’s squad rebuild continues with two key signings. Argentine forward Fernando Forestieri joins after impressing during a trial, bringing vast experience from Serie A, the English Championship and Malaysia’s top division.

The club also signed Cameroonian centre-back Stephane Keller from Deportivo Alavés. The 24-year-old spent last season in Croatia with NK Istra 1961 and strengthens AEL’s defensive options ahead of the new campaign.

Apollon Limassol: Gaspar Signs Through 2027

Apollon have secured the signing of Portuguese right-back Bruno Gaspar on a deal until May 2027. The 32-year-old, who has played for Sporting Lisbon, Fiorentina, Olympiacos and Vancouver Whitecaps, adds over 280 senior appearances and Africa Cup of Nations experience with Angola to Apollon’s defensive line.

Aris Limassol: Kakoullis Loan and Charalambous Arrival

Aris Limassol have bolstered their squad with two Cypriot internationals.

Forward Andronikos Kakoullis joins on loan with an option for a permanent transfer, while midfielder Charalambos “Chambos” Charalambous arrives on a three-year deal following his departure from Omonoia. Charalambous, 23, has already amassed over 120 senior appearances, multiple domestic honours and 22 caps for Cyprus.

AEK Larnaca: Bajic Boosts the Attack

AEK Larnaca are set to strengthen their forward line with the arrival of Bosnian striker Riad Bajić on a two-year contract. The 30-year-old, who has played extensively in Turkey and Italy, is expected to complete his move imminently.

Pafos FC: Gorter Signs, Pedrão Loaned, Luiz Rumours Persist

Pafos FC continued their active window with multiple additions.

The club secured Dutch goalkeeper Jay Gorter from Ajax on a long-term contract until 2028, adding European experience and youth international pedigree to their squad.

In defence, Pafos completed the loan signing of Pedrão, a 21-year-old Brazilian centre-back from Cruzeiro. The deal, understood to be worth around €150,000, brings in a player with 37 senior appearances, mainly in Brazil’s Série B and Campeonato Catarinense.

Pafos also added 20-year-old midfielder Alexandre Brito on loan from Sporting Lisbon and are in advanced talks to sign former Chelsea and Arsenal defender David Luiz, with negotiations reportedly close to completion.

APOEL: Dalcio Returns and Meurer Joins on Loan

APOEL have announced the return of Portuguese midfielder Dálcio Gomes on a two-year deal until May 2027. Dálcio rejoins after a spell at Red Star Belgrade, having previously made 81 appearances, scored seven goals and contributed 10 assists during his first stint with the club, helping them to a league title.

The Nicosia side also secured the loan signing of Geovane Meurer from Coritiba. The 22-year-old Brazilian midfielder has experience across central and attacking roles and arrives as APOEL aim to strengthen their squad for European competition.

Anorthosis: CAS Embargo Lifted

Anorthosis Famagusta confirmed that their CAS transfer embargo has been lifted, allowing them to return to the market after months of restrictions. The club thanked supporters for their patience and vowed to rebuild under improved conditions.

“We are Anorthosis. We come from Ammochostos. We do not quit. Even if there is only a handful of us left, we will still be here.”

KOA: Fan Card System Faces Continued Technical Issues

KOA’s fan card registration system remains under scrutiny following widespread complaints. Official Kostas Solomou acknowledged “technical difficulties” affecting the process and confirmed discussions are ongoing about potentially extending the old system.

More than 50,000 cards have been issued ahead of European qualifiers, with KOA working to simplify registration for pensioners and players’ families. Plans for a digital ticketing option, similar to systems used in Greece, are also under review.