Belgian outside hitter Sam Deroo is expected to sign for Halkbank Ankara ahead of the new season, according to reports from Türkiye. An official confirmation from the club is still pending.
The move comes after another piece of good news shared by Sam Deroo himself. Following several life-changing months, during which the Belgian volleyball star successfully overcame cancer and returned to the court, Deroo is also celebrating the birth of his daughter, Mia.
The experienced outside hitter is likely to arrive from Lokomotiv Novosibirsk, where he played last season. Deroo helped the Russian team earn a bronze medal in the league after returning from a lengthy absence.
The 34-year-old missed more than three months while receiving chemotherapy in Belgium after after a cancer diagnosis discovered during a routine medical examination. He later returned to the court and completed the season.
Deroo is one of Belgium’s most experienced players and has captained the national team. His career has included spells with Zenit Kazan, Dynamo Moscow, Modena and Verona, as well as four Russian league titles.
Halkbank finished third in the Turkish league last season and will compete in the CEV Cup.
İstanbul Gençlik Spor Kulübü had also been linked with Deroo, but Halkbank is now reported to be the frontrunner for his signature.
