The transfer window has barely cracked open, and Mirel Rădoi has already struck. The 45-year-old Romanian manager, currently steering Gaziantep FK, has completed his first major acquisition for the upcoming 2026-2027 campaign. And no, it isn’t the young prospect from Universitatea Craiova or the FCSB enigma that rumors whispered about. It is a calculated gamble on raw firepower from the Turkish third tier.

The Signing

Ali Budak, a journalist with deep ties inside the Gaziantep camp, confirmed the deal on X. Fuat Bavuk, 25, is officially a Gaziantep player. He arrives on a free transfer after his contract with Elazigspor expired. Why a third-division forward? Because Bavuk was not just playing; he was dominating. In 31 appearances for Elazigspor, he netted 22 goals and provided 5 assists. That is a goal every 1.4 games. Other Super Lig sides were interested, but Bavuk chose Gaziantep, reportedly assured of a central role in Rădoi’s tactical vision.

Replacing Drăguș

The departure of Denis Drăguș left a gaping hole in the center of attack. Rădoi needs a finisher, and Bavuk’s physical profile fits the bill. Standing 1.89 meters tall, the Istanbul-born striker brings size and aggression. Transfermarkt values him at €200,000, a figure that reflects his lack of top-flight experience rather than his ability. Indeed, Bavuk has never played a single minute in the Turkish Süper Lig. His only second-division appearances came as a youth player for Umraniyespor, totaling just three matches.

Rădoi presented two lists to the club hierarchy in May: one of targets he wanted, and one of players he did not. Bavuk appears to be the first name crossed off the "wanted" column. The question remains: can a league-leading scorer from the third tier translate his form against the giants of Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, and Beşiktaş? It is a risky move, but Rădoi has never been one for safe bets. The stage is set for Bavuk to prove he is more than just a stat-sheet filler. If he delivers, Gaziantep will have struck gold. If not, the pressure will mount immediately.