After a deal for Kristijan Jakić failed, PAOK is reportedly interested in Batista Mendy, a 26-year-old French and Guinea-Bissauan midfielder from Trabzonspor. Sportdog.gr has confirmed this link. Turkish sources are also said to have suggested the player to the club. Mendy joined Trabzonspor in September 2023, and his contract is valid until June 2027. He is valued at €7.50m by Transfermarkt. Several other clubs, including Celta de Vigo and Torino, have also been linked with him. Reports from August 2026 state that Trabzonspor's management expects approximately €4 million for the player, and Ajax reportedly made a €5 million bid in July 2026.