GAIS have rejected a bid from AIK worth just under ten million kronor for attacker Anes Cardaklija. The club decided to keep the 21-year-old talent despite significant interest from both AIK and Greek giants Panathinaikos, according to a report from fotbollskanalen.se.
GAIS technical director Magnus Sköldmark confirmed the negotiations but said the parties did not reach an agreement. "Vi kom inte så långt att det blev en möjlig lösning för oss som klubb att släppa honom," Sköldmark said. The transfer window remains open for moves abroad, meaning Cardaklija could theoretically leave before it closes. "Det går inte att stänga någon dörr. Det är möjligt att det kan hända någonting," Sköldmark added.
How does this affect GAIS's season?
Keeping Cardaklija is an important statement for GAIS, who currently sit ninth in the Allsvenskan table with 26 points. The team has played 19 matches, recording seven wins, five draws, and seven losses. Their attack has produced 25 goals so far, while the defence has conceded 18. The positive goal difference of +7 is among the better in the mid-table region. However, the team trails league leaders Sirius by 16 points, highlighting the challenge of breaking into the top spots.
Cardaklija has been part of this offensive output with his 13 Allsvenskan appearances this season. His contract with GAIS runs until the summer of 2028, giving the club a strong negotiating position. Turning down a bid of nearly 10 million kronor shows the club values him highly and sees him as a key player for the future. Fans can follow the full squad's statistics on our stats page.
What are GAIS's current challenges?
Despite the positive news regarding Cardaklija, GAIS have other concerns to manage. The team's injuries list currently includes Christos Gravius, Mohamed Bawa, and Samuel Salter. Their absence puts pressure on the rest of the squad. The next match is an important away fixture against Mjallby AIF on September 20th. Mjallby are twelfth in the table, making this an opportunity for GAIS to collect points and move up the standings.
Having a fit and motivated Cardaklija could be decisive in the upcoming match. His ability to create dangerous situations will be needed to break down Mjallby's defence. The team's recent form, noted as WLLWD, shows some inconsistency they will hope to rectify.
What happens next with the transfer speculation?
With the Swedish window closed, AIK cannot submit a new bid. However, the possibility remains for foreign clubs to act. Interest from Panathinaikos is known, and other clubs may emerge. GAIS's position is strong thanks to the long contract. They are under no pressure to sell cheaply. The club's decision to keep the player immediately strengthens the squad for the final part of the season.
GAIS's focus is now entirely on matters on the pitch. The next test comes on September 20th at Strandvallen against Mjallby. A victory there would provide a vital boost ahead of the final rounds. Fans can plan their autumn by checking the complete fixtures schedule. Anes Cardaklija is under contract with GAIS until the summer of 2028.
