Antalyaspor has ended their search for a striker by signing Nuno da Costa. The club announced the deal this week, bringing in the experienced forward to bolster their attack in the 1. Lig.
According to a report from ajansspor.com, the transfer process is now complete. Costa made 35 official appearances for Istanbul Başakşehir last season. During those matches, he scored 6 goals and provided 3 assists. Antalyaspor's management believes the player's Süper Lig experience and goal-scoring ability will significantly benefit the team.
Why did the team need a new striker?
Antalyaspor has had a tough start to the 2026-2027 1. Lig season. They currently sit in 17th place in the league table. They have managed to secure only three points from their first four matches. This record consists of one win and three losses. The team's goal difference stands at minus three. They have found the net seven times but have conceded ten goals. They trail league leaders Batman Petrolspor by seven points. This situation clearly highlighted the need for fresh impetus in the attacking third.
The club embarked on a squad renewal after being relegated to the 1. Lig. However, the results in the opening weeks fell short of expectations. This prompted a move into the transfer market. Finding an experienced goal-scorer became a top priority. Nuno da Costa's profile matched this requirement perfectly. The team's attacking options on the squad page now appear more substantial.
What will Nuno da Costa bring to Antalyaspor?
The 31-year-old forward is beginning his second spell in Turkish football. The Portuguese-born player is known for his physical strength and effectiveness in aerial duels. He was a regular feature for Başakşehir last season, appearing consistently in both league and cup matches. This performance caught the eye of Antalyaspor's technical staff.
Costa's arrival will provide a different option in the team's forward line. He is expected to contribute particularly in combination play with wingers and from set-piece situations. His previous experience in the Süper Lig could ease his adaptation to the physical and tactical demands of the 1. Lig. The club hopes this move will boost the goal production reflected in their stats data.
What is the status of the club's other files?
The completion of this transfer allows the club to focus on other pending matters. Information relayed by ajansspor.com indicates Antalyaspor has four open cases at FIFA. Resolving these files will provide operational relief for the club.
Additionally, license approval processes are ongoing for Samet Yalçın, Arif Kocaman, and Fotis Pseftis. The status of these three individuals is being closely monitored. The administration is working to expedite the necessary procedures so the players can be eligible for official competitions. All these developments are seen as steps to improve the team's position on the standings page.
What is the next target?
This move, made close to the end of the transfer window, strengthens the manager's hand. The team can now focus on improving their league performance. Their next league match is scheduled for June 12, 2026. They will face Muğlaspor, who are currently 11th in the table. The match will be played away from home. This fixture presents a significant opportunity for the new striker to integrate with the team and make his first league impression. Antalyaspor fans are eagerly awaiting this important away game on the team's fixtures schedule.
