As the European summer transfer window intensifies, a wave of uncertainty has engulfed several of Nigeria’s prominent international footballers. While some players have secured clear paths ahead in their pre-season preparations, many others find themselves trapped in a limbo of stalled offers, contract uncertainties, and dwindling interest from clubs.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s spell in La Liga has deteriorated rapidly since his move to Sevilla last summer following Leicester City’s promotion. Despite high expectations, Iheanacho managed only one league goal in eleven appearances, prompting critics to label the signing a misstep by former club director Victor Orta. After a loan stint at Middlesbrough where he scored once and assisted twice in 15 Championship matches, Iheanacho has returned to Sevilla only to be informed he may not be part of new coach Matías Almeyda’s plans. Although his contract extends until 2026, the 2013 U-17 World Cup Golden Ball winner now faces a critical pre-season assessment, with few anticipating a revival. Iheanacho must battle to restore his once-promising career before the transfer window closes.
Samuel Chukwueze’s €20 million transfer from Villarreal to AC Milan was expected to herald a fresh start but has instead ended with the winger being offered to Turkish clubs. The 26-year-old’s record of eight goals in 69 appearances was overshadowed by inconsistent performances. New Rossoneri manager Massimiliano Allegri has declared him surplus to requirements. Interest from Real Betis and Turkish sides Besiktas and Fenerbahce has surfaced, but Chukwueze’s high wage demands and diminished market value complicate any potential move.
Umar Sadiq experienced a brief resurgence at Valencia last season, netting five goals in 16 matches and earning the club’s Goal of the Season award. Despite this, Real Sociedad, his parent club, remains reluctant to integrate him into their plans. Since his €20 million transfer in 2022, injuries and tactical mismatches have hindered his progress. Although Turkish giants Beşiktaş are interested, negotiations drag on, leaving Sadiq in a state of uncertainty.
Bright Osayi-Samuel, previously a regular at Fenerbahce, is now without a club after rejecting a contract extension. Negotiations with Besiktas collapsed due to last-minute bonus demands from his father. The 27-year-old defender, who made 39 appearances last season, must reconsider his stance or risk entering the new season unattached.
Zaidu Sanusi, sidelined by a severe ACL injury, is among nine players FC Porto intends to offload as part of a post-Club World Cup squad overhaul. With two years left on his contract but limited match fitness, the 26-year-old Nigerian left-back’s future remains uncertain as Porto seeks to free up funds for reinforcements.
Cyriel Dessers, Rangers’ top scorer last season with 18 goals, also faces an unsettled future. Despite interest from AEK Athens and Feyenoord, Rangers are firm on selling only after securing a replacement striker. Manager Russell Martin is open to assessing Dessers in pre-season, but the club’s priority remains a transfer.
Frank Onyeka, on loan at Augsburg last season, is unsure of his long-term future at Brentford following a managerial change. With interest from Burnley, Stuttgart, and Fiorentina but no formal offers, Onyeka’s fate depends on the new coach’s plans.
Finally, Chuba Akpom’s situation is particularly troubling. Exiled from Ajax’s first-team facilities and stripped of privileges due to failing to impress on loan at Lille, the striker faces isolation. His agents are actively seeking solutions, but the former Middlesbrough forward must overcome significant obstacles to revive his career.
Okay.ng reports that these players’ futures hang in the balance as the transfer window progresses, with each facing unique challenges that could define their careers in the coming months.
