Transfers
Cagliari secure loan deal for Alieu Fadera from Como
Alieu Fadera joins Sardinia side Cagliari on loan from Como for the 2026 summer window.
Cagliari have moved to bolster their attacking options with the addition of Alieu Fadera, who has joined the Sardinian club on loan from Como. The deal was confirmed on 20 August 2026, with Fadera swapping Serie B for Serie A as part of the arrangement.
The 24-year-old attacker arrives at Cagliari with considerable experience despite his relatively young years. Having represented Gambia at international level, Fadera brings a different profile to Cagliari’s front line as they seek consistency in the top flight.
Fadera’s departure from Como was triggered by limited opportunities at the Italian side. The loan move allows him to gain regular minutes in a competitive league, which could prove crucial ahead of next season’s fixtures.
Cagliari sporting director Gianluca Nani confirmed the signing in a statement, describing Fadera as someone who fits the club’s vision moving forward. He added that the player is expected to integrate quickly into the squad under manager Claudio Ranieri.
While the financial details remain undisclosed, sources close to both clubs suggest that the loan includes an option for Cagliari to purchase the player permanently at the end of the campaign. That clause would give them flexibility depending on how Fadera performs during his spell in Sardinia.
Fadera is no stranger to life in Italy, having previously played for Bologna during his early career. His familiarity with the domestic scene should help ease the transition to Cagliari, where expectations are high following a solid preseason.
The Gambian forward will wear the number nine jersey for the Rossoblu, a number previously worn by several notable strikers in the club’s history. He is expected to be available for selection in Cagliari’s opening Serie A match later this month.
Preseason training has already seen Fadera participate fully with the group, earning praise from coaching staff for his work ethic and movement off the ball. His presence adds depth to an attack that struggled with injuries last season.
Meanwhile, Como confirmed that Fadera’s exit was mutually agreed upon, allowing the player to pursue regular football while maintaining a pathway back should circumstances change. The club retains a strong relationship with Cagliari, built through previous collaborations.
This marks another shrewd piece of business from Cagliari, who have been active in the transfer market since the close of the last season. Their focus remains on securing survival in Serie A, with Fadera expected to play a key role in that mission.
Updates on Fadera’s progress at Cagliari will be monitored closely, particularly given the interest from other clubs should he impress during his loan spell. For now, all attention turns to his debut in the coming weeks.