Antwerp still has one deadline to clear before the upcoming week reveals which players the club can still sign. The deadline, closing on July 15, decides whether the team adds a reinforcement for the final stretch of the Jupiler Pro League. Last result: Antwerp 2-0 KVC Westerlo (2026-05-23) and a recent form of 2W-2D-1L (WWDDL) give the Red Lions a solid base, yet manager Mark van Bommel is still hunting for an extra spark.

Rumour mills focus on a young forward from a Dutch Eredivisie side, reportedly available for €3.5 million. Van Bommel has said the player “can add a fresh dimension to our attack”. The deadline forces the club to act quickly, as rivals Club Brugge and Gent are sharpening their own pursuits.

Sitting fourth in the league, every point is vital for a European spot. An additional scorer could tip the balance in the upcoming fixtures against Standard Liège and Charleroi. Also, the club recently secured a contract extension with midfielder Jannes Vansteenkiste, tightening the budget for a new signing.

Supporters at Bosuilstadion have voiced their concerns on social media. One fan account posted: “We needed the win over Westerlo, now we want a new star. Don’t let us down!” The mood remains tense, but the recent victory has kept hope alive.

Should the deadline pass without a new acquisition, Antwerp must rely on the current squad. The last five matches show mixed form: two wins, two draws and one loss. Without added quality, maintaining a top‑four finish could become a struggle.

The board announced an internal review on July 14 to assess the financial feasibility of the potential transfer. If the deal goes through, the player could debut in the first post‑summer match, against RSC Anderlecht on August 1.

The coming days will decide Antwerp’s trajectory. Fans and analysts hold their breath, awaiting the official confirmation that could launch the club into the next phase of the campaign.