As the European summer transfer window gains momentum, several of Nigeria’s top footballers are navigating uncertain futures. From contract disputes and injury setbacks to managerial snubs, a number of established internationals find themselves on the margins. Here’s a profile of eight Super Eagles stars whose careers are currently in limbo.
Kelechi Iheanacho
Once tipped for greatness at Manchester City, Iheanacho’s move to Sevilla has failed to meet expectations. After netting just one goal in 11 league appearances, he was loaned to Middlesbrough, where he managed a modest return of one goal and two assists. Sevilla’s new coach, Matías Almeyda, is unlikely to retain him, despite his contract running until 2026.
Samuel Chukwueze
Chukwueze’s €20m move from Villarreal to AC Milan was expected to elevate his career, but the winger has been underwhelming. With only eight goals in 69 appearances, new manager Massimiliano Allegri has deemed him surplus to requirements. Besiktas and Fenerbahce have shown interest, but wage demands are complicating a potential exit.
Umar Sadiq
Despite a solid loan spell at Valencia, Sadiq remains unwanted at Real Sociedad. Knee injuries and tactical misfits have hindered his form. Although he’s reported for pre-season, Sociedad are actively seeking a buyer, with Turkish side Beşiktaş reportedly monitoring the situation.
Bright Osayi-Samuel
After rejecting a contract extension with Fenerbahce, Osayi-Samuel’s proposed move to Besiktas collapsed due to a bonus demand from his camp. Now a free agent, the 27-year-old defender risks missing the start of the season if he doesn’t compromise on his terms.
Zaidu Sanusi
The Nigerian left-back has fallen out of favour at FC Porto after a long-term ACL injury. With two years left on his deal, he is among nine players listed for sale by new coach Martin Anselmi. His fitness concerns are delaying any prospective transfer.
Cyriel Dessers
Despite scoring 18 goals for Rangers last season, the club is keen to cash in on Dessers before signing a new striker. While clubs like AEK Athens and Feyenoord have been linked, no concrete offer has emerged. The 29-year-old will return for pre-season amid mounting uncertainty.
Frank Onyeka
Following a loan spell at Augsburg, Onyeka’s future at Brentford is unclear. The departure of manager Thomas Frank and the arrival of Keith Andrews have left the midfielder’s role in limbo. With interest from Burnley and Fiorentina but no official bids, his future hangs in the balance.
Chuba Akpom
Akpom’s situation at Ajax has taken a dramatic turn. He was reportedly told via WhatsApp not to attend training until the first team has left, stripped of parking privileges, and left to share limited physiotherapy resources. Having struggled to impress on loan at Lille, his representatives are working to secure an exit.
As the transfer window progresses, these players face a race against time to secure meaningful moves and revive stalled careers.
