FC Basel are on the verge of signing a Tunisian player from the 2026 World Cup squad. The 24-year-old midfielder Youssef Msakni could complete a move to Switzerland, according to internal sources confirmed on July 23, 2026. The Tunisian record international brings top-flight experience and would boost Basel’s attack - just as the club sits top of the Super League title race.
Msakni, contracted to Espérance Tunis since 2018, was a standout performer for Tunisia at the 2026 World Cup in Qatar. With 12 caps and two goals this year, he has proven his class. Basel’s scouts tracked him last winter, but talks only now appear advanced. Sporting director Reto Baumgartner told local media the negotiations are „in an advanced stage.“ His technique and vision would fit Basel’s system, which relies on quick wingers and a creative midfield playmaker.
Basel currently lead the Super League with 73 points from 38 games (22 wins, 7 draws, 9 losses) and recent form of five games with three wins and two losses (WLWWW). With 91 goals scored and just 43 conceded (+48 goal difference), the club tops the league’s attack. Msakni could fuel that momentum - and extend the gap over Servette FC (10 points behind).
A marquee signing like Msakni would underline the club’s ambitions. Fans hope for a return to the Champions League after Basel’s elimination in qualifying in 2023/24. Msakni would add quality on the pitch and commercial appeal: the Tunisian market is growing for European clubs. Yet rivals are circling too. Young Boys Bern and Lugano are also eyeing African talent.
Baumgartner stressed the club will „make no rushed decisions.“ Financing must be right, and Msakni would need to fit in on the pitch. If the deal goes through, he could make his debut in August 2026 - just in time for the new Champions League qualifiers.
Basel’s delegation flies to Tunis this week to finalize details. Msakni himself has shown openness to a move, but his Espérance contract runs until 2027. A loan with option to buy or a fee around 3 million euros are seen as the likeliest scenarios. Fans are waiting for official confirmation - hoping the transfer is announced before the next Super League game on August 3, 2026.
With Msakni, Basel would gain not only a strong player but a direct link to Tunisian football. That could strengthen ties with local academies long term. All eyes are on whether the deal materializes - but signs point to Basel soon adding a World Cup participant.
