The Columbus Crew announced Tuesday afternoon they have completed the signing of midfielder Sekou Bangoura from Israeli Premier League team Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona for an undisclosed fee. The deal runs through 2029, with a Club option for 2030. Bangoura will be signed as an international roster spot, pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and P-1 Visa.

Bangoura spent the 2025–2025 season on loan with Hapoel Ironi, before becoming joining permanently on May 12. Appearing in 37 total matches, Bangoura notched just one goal and one assist.

“Sekou is a tenacious young player who helps strengthen our central midfield. He has become a Standout player on both sides of the ball in his league, and his performances were rewarded by his recent senior international debut with Guinea.

We are eager to welcome Sekou to the Club and help further his growth within our style of play the fits his skillset,” said Crew general manager Issa Tall.

Prior to joining Hapoel Ironi, Bangoura spent time with Danish Superliga side Jammerbugt FC in 2022, making his professional debut against HB Koge. During his time, Bangoura tallied four goals and one assist across 14 matches. For the 2022-23 season, Bangoura joined Genclerbirligi Spot Kulubu on loan, recording one assist in seven matches. HE was then loaned to Tuzlaspor for the 2023-24 season, starting all 30 matches and recording one goal and four assists.