PAOK targets French midfielder Baptiste Santamaria

PAOK's transfer strategy is in full swing as the club scouts for players to enhance their roster for the new season. Among the targets drawing attention from the "black and whites" is Baptiste Santamaria, currently playing for Valencia and possessing significant experience in top European leagues.

The 31-year-old French midfielder, primarily a defensive midfielder, is said to be on PAOK's list to bolster the central midfield. Spanish sources indicate his name is being strongly discussed in transfer rumors concerning PAOK, with potential developments expected soon.

Santamaria's career includes 22 appearances for Valencia last season, where he scored one goal and provided two assists. His extensive resume features stints at clubs like Angers, Freiburg, Rennes, and Nice. He joined Freiburg in 2020 for approximately 14 million euros, a notable transfer for the German club.

After returning to France for four years with Rennes, where he played 127 matches, scoring four goals and assisting six, Santamaria moved to Valencia in the summer of 2025. However, reports suggest the Spanish club might consider selling him to reduce wage costs, a situation that could open the door for PAOK's involvement.