Two Potential Transfer Targets Stand Out in Razorbacks Quest to Strengthen Interior

Previous ties to John Calipari could gives Arkansas likely edge for Somto Cyril, Mouhamed Sylla

Arkansas Razorbacks coach John Calipari on the sidelines against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. | Michael Morrison-allHOGS Images

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — If Arkansas is going to take the next step under coach John Calipari, it won’t happen on the perimeter. Instead, it will be by adjustments he makes in the paint.

Calipari built a roster last season that leaned heavily on guard play from super freshmen Darius Acuff and Meleek Thomas. While it resulted in the Razorbacks pushing past High Point to make the Sweet 16 for the second straight season, it has reinforced a familiar truth that championship contenders built for March need size, rim protection and rebounding to survive and advance past the second weekend.

There are currently two big men in particular who would appear to be solid additions out of the portal with each having a previous relationship with the Razorbacks' Naismith Hall of Fame coach.

Somto Cyril, Center

Cyril announced his intention to enter the transfer portal earlier this week amid speculation he would be looking to go elsewhere. The 6-foot-11, 260 pound chiseled sophomore became a force in the paint for Georgia and is a definite option for an Arkansas team that wants to strengthen its front court.

He led the SEC in blocks which led to All-SEC defensive team honors and would likely bring the Razorbacks a formidable presence in the paint. SEC journeyman Nick Pringle struggled with consistency mostly because an injured back left him less effective throughout the season.

Arkansas has a scoring option in the post with Malique Ewin should his waiver be granted for another year of eligibility. Ewin brings value as a stretch forward and is an avid offensive rebounder.

Should Cyril opt to transfer to Arkansas, he would make the Razorbacks favorites not only in the SEC, but national title contenders in 2027.

Cyril has developed nicely in Athens over the past two seasons, doubling his production with 10 points, five rebounds, and two blocks in 21 minutes per game.

He is a dominant finisher at the rim as a lob or post-up threat down low. His leaping ability off one or two feet is exceptional and will make him an immediate fan favorite wherever he lands.

His understanding of how to take angles for rebound opportunities forces defenders to box him out or potentially pay the price of him scoring off second chance points.

He was committed to coach John Calipari at Kentucky during the 2024 recruiting cycle, but both went their separate ways when Calipari decided to take the Arkansas job after 16 seasons in Lexington.

Calipari is big on relationships with players whether they played for him or chose to go elsewhere. Time will tell whether their relationship has stood time as Cyril will likely be among the most recruited players this spring as the No. 1 player in the transfer portal, according to 247Sports.

He is the perfect fit for what Calipari likes to do scheme-wise utilizing a high-pace, efficient scoring offense. Having a center who can run the floor, and be a dominant force in the paint as a defender would do wonders for an Arkansas team looking to advance deeper into the NCAA Tournament next season.

Mouhamed Sylla, Center

Sylla is a former 2025 prospect who played 16 games as a true freshman and announced his intention to enter the transfer portal earlier this week. He missed Georgia Tech's final 12 regular season games with an ankle injury, but was effective when healthy as he scored in double-figures in 10-of-16 games.

As a true freshman, he averaged 10 points, seven rebounds, one block, and one assist per game. The Senegal native signed with Georgia Tech and former coach Damon Stoudamire as a prized 5-star recruit who ranked as the No. 2 center in his recruiting class.

He showed promise in his ACC debut against Duke, scoring eight points, three rebounds, two assists and two blocks prior to injuring his ankle.

It appeared Sylla was trending toward Arkansas after an official visit in December 2024, but the Yellowjackets closed the deal when he took a visit to Atlanta a month later.

Like Cyril, a previous relationship with Calipari could prove to be the difference if he decides to come to Arkansas. He would have an immediate role at the center position.

What makes Sylla a different option at center is his athletic skillset that allows him to stretch the floor, block shots, rebound, force turnovers and runs well in transition.

Obviously, Arkansas won’t be the only program pursuing either player. Calipari has never shied away from competing for elite talent whether they are in the transfer portal or high school, often landing who he wants.

Whether it’s Cyril’s proven production or Sylla’s long-term upside, Arkansas is positioned well to make a move for either based off personal history.

And if Arkansas has any desire to advance past back-to-back Sweet 16 appearances, then the next step is making sure to add someone who will be able to control the paint all season long.