Exclusive: Championship Heavyweights and MLS Giants Chase Charleroi Winger Parfait Guiagon

Making headlines with his technical masterclass at Charleroi, Parfait Guiagon has emerged as a high-priority target for ambitious EFL Championship sides and the rapidly growing MLS.

Redefining the winger role with a stunning return of 11 goals and 2 assists across all competitions this season, the 24-year-old Ivorian is expected to ignite a fierce global bidding war in the Summer 2026 transfer window.

Scouting Tribunes

Guiagon’s football IQ and blistering agility on the flanks are attracting scouts from clubs currently lacking a creative spark and ready to commit significant transfer budgets to fill that void.

Ipswich Town, Coventry City, and Middlesbrough, all in stable financial positions, are among the most serious suitors. 

Leaked reports suggest Ipswich scouts have graded Guiagon’s decision-making in transition play as "one of the best in the league." 

Additionally, West Bromwich Albion is closely monitoring the situation to add variety to their attacking rotation, viewing him as a tactical "X-factor" on the wing.

Across the Atlantic, Orlando City and Charlotte FC are keen to integrate Guiagon into their rosters. 

Specifically, Charlotte FC are rumoured to have identified the winger as a "Designated Player" (DP) candidate, with plans to open negotiations with Charleroi this summer to make him the face of their offensive project in the United States.

Technical Observations: The Master of the Flanks

Scouting evaluations confirm why Guiagon is considered a "rare find" for teams playing a high-intensity system. 

While his 1.65m frame might initially seem like a disadvantage, his low centre of gravity and explosive acceleration allow him to glide past defenders with ease. His ability to maintain balance in shoulder-to-shoulder duels is rated as "highly sufficient" for the physical rigors of the Championship, often leaving larger defenders trailing.

With an 85% pass completion rate and elite crossing efficiency, he fits the profile of a modern, goal-scoring winger. His improved clinical finishing inside the box, moving away from being a traditional touchline hugger to an inside-threat asset, has significantly increased his market value.

Contractual Status and Financial Projections

In a strategic move to protect his market value, Charleroi extended Guiagon's contract in January until June 2028.

The Belgian side is expected to set a firm asking price in the €7m–€9m range. For high-budget Championship sides or "big-spender" MLS franchises, this figure is considered well within reach for a winger of his age and goal-scoring pedigree.

While Charleroi maintains that Guiagon is a "core part of the project," reports suggest the player is open to a new challenge, with a preference for English football or a marquee role in the United States.

The Ideal Route

The Championship Route: Joining a possession-heavy side like Ipswich could maximize his technical ceiling and act as a direct shop window for the Premier League. 

The MLS Route: Becoming a "franchise player" at Charlotte FC offers Guiagon a significant financial step up and the opportunity to become one of the league's marquee stars.