Kirkuk club Gaz al-Shamal signs Mali winger Dembele

KIRKUK, Iraq — Gaz al-Shamal has signed Mali winger Yakup Dembele as the Kirkuk-based football club strengthens its squad ahead of the new season, the team's administrative board chief, Varya Celal, told the agency. Celal said the transfer was completed after all terms were agreed, adding that Dembele's performances with Cevlan last season were decisive in the decision. She said the player stood out for his pace, individual ability and goal contribution. The technical staff recommended the move to fill the need for an experienced winger capable of making a difference on the flank, according to Celal. The club said Gaz al-Shamal's management is continuing to add local and foreign players based on the technical team's requirements, and that pre-season preparations are proceeding according to the program set by the coaching staff ahead of the league's start.