French-born defender Beres Owusu has finalized a permanent transfer to Austrian Bundesliga club Grazer AK, signing a deal until 2029. The move follows an impressive loan spell during the 2025/26 season, during which Grazer AK activated the purchase option on the 22-year-old Ghanaian-eligible centre-back.
Owusu’s Rise at Grazer AK
Owusu joined Grazer AK on loan from French club AS Saint-Étienne in the summer of 2025. His previous loan spell was with US Quevilly-Rouen Métropole.
The Austrian club confirmed the permanent deal, highlighting Owusu as one of their most dependable players throughout the recently concluded season. He arrived with little fanfare from the French fifth division but quickly became a defensive cornerstone.
The 22-year-old featured in 31 of the club’s 32 league matches, missing only one due to suspension. After starting on the bench in the season opener, Owusu played every minute in the subsequent matches, solidifying his reputation as a consistent performer under head coach Ferdinand Feldhofer.
Player and Club Reactions
Expressing his satisfaction with the long-term commitment, Owusu shared his initial uncertainty upon arriving in Graz. However, he quickly felt at home, forging strong bonds with teammates and the coaching staff.
“The season was very demanding, but we all pulled together and ultimately deservedly secured our place in the league,” Owusu stated. “I’m delighted that the club continues to have faith in me and has exercised its option to buy me.”
Grazer AK’s sporting director, Tino Wawra, lauded Owusu as a significant asset. Wawra acknowledged that while the transfer fee represented a substantial investment for the club, securing a player of Owusu’s caliber was a priority if financially viable.
“With his physique, Beres is an exceptional player for Austria, and as of today, he’s obviously a major asset for GAK,” Wawra commented.
Ghanaian Eligibility and Future Prospects
Born in Paris to Ghanaian parents, Owusu retains the option to represent Ghana internationally. He has previously voiced his ambition to play for the Black Stars in the future, a prospect that could add another dimension to his burgeoning career.
Implications for Grazer AK and Beyond
The permanent signing of Beres Owusu signifies Grazer AK’s commitment to building a strong, stable defensive unit. It also demonstrates the club’s ability to identify and secure promising talent, even from deeper footballing leagues.
For Owusu, this move provides crucial stability and the opportunity to establish himself as a key player in a European top-flight league. His consistent performances and the club’s investment suggest a bright future ahead.
The transfer also highlights the increasing trend of clubs securing players on permanent deals after successful loan spells, a strategy that can mitigate risk and ensure continuity. The football world will be watching to see if Owusu can continue his impressive form and potentially earn an international call-up.
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