Coventry City announced the signing of 19-year-old forward Sidiki Cherif from Turkish club Fenerbahce on a long-term deal on August 19, 2026 [1, 2]. Cherif, born in Guinea and raised in France from the age of five, began his professional career with French side Angers before moving to Fenerbahce [3].
Last season, Cherif scored 2 goals in 12 appearances in the Turkish Super Lig for Fenerbahce [3, 1, 2]. He also gained experience playing in UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League qualifiers prior to joining Coventry [3].
British media have reported the transfer fee for Cherif at around £20.5 million ($27.89 million), making him one of Coventry’s expensive summer recruits [1, 2]. The club has spent over £90 million ($122.52 million) on new players this transfer window, including signings such as Caleb Yirenkyi, Carl Rushworth, Loum Tchaouna, Aurele Amenda, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Gustavo Hamer [3, 1, 2]. Caleb Yirenkyi’s transfer reportedly set a club record at £23.1 million [1, 2].
Cherif expressed enthusiasm about his move to Coventry City, stating, "I'm very happy to be a Coventry City player and I'm excited to be playing in the Premier League. I'm looking forward to showing the fans what I can do and to play at the amazing stadium. I can't wait to get started" [3].
The signing of Cherif bolsters Coventry's attacking options as they prepare for the Premier League season ahead.