As the football season nears its conclusion, transfer speculations are heating up.
Several Super Eagles players are approaching the end of their contracts or facing uncertain futures. Here’s a look at five Nigerian stars who could be on the move this summer.
Ola Aina
Regarded as one of the best right-backs in the Premier League at the moment, Ola Aina’s contract with Nottingham Forest is set to expire in June.
The 28-year-old joined Forest on a one-year deal in July 2023 after stints with Torino, Fulham, and Chelsea.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Liverpool have placed Aina on their summer transfer shortlist, while Chelsea and Newcastle United are also reportedly interested.
Despite the interest from top clubs, Aina is said to be open to renewing with Forest. Talks are reportedly at an advanced stage, but with no deal finalized, his future remains up in the air.
His performances this season have been crucial for Nuno Espirito Santo’s men as they chase a Champions League spot. It remains to be seen where he ends up next season.
Wherever he lands, Aina has certainly enhanced his stock this season with consistent and high-level displays in the EPL.
Semi Ajayi
Semi Ajayi is expected to leave West Bromwich Albion when his contract expires this summer.
The 31-year-old has struggled with injuries this season, which hasn’t helped his case. With West Brom unlikely to achieve Premier League promotion and planning a squad reshuffle, reports suggest Ajayi will not be offered an extension.
Since joining the Baggies from Rotherham United in 2019, Ajayi has been a key figure, featuring in 169 league games and scoring 12 goals.
His experience could attract interest from clubs looking for defensive reinforcements.
Bright Osayi-Samuel
The Super Eagles full-back’s contract with Fenerbahçe runs until June 2025, but negotiations for a new deal have stalled.
Osayi-Samuel is reportedly seeking a higher salary, and Fenerbahçe appears reluctant to meet his demands.
Premier League sides, including Everton, have shown strong interest.
Gabriel Osho
Gabriel Osho’s contract with Ligue 1 side AJ Auxerre is set to expire at the end of the season.
The 26-year-old defender, who left Luton Town for France, signed a one-year deal with an option for two more years.
While Osho has impressed at the heart of Auxerre’s defence, negotiations for an extension are reportedly ongoing.
He has made 19 league appearances this season, helping the club steer clear of relegation danger. Whether he stays or seeks a new challenge remains to be seen.
Victor Osimhen
While Victor Osimhen is not out of contract with Napoli, his loan spell at Galatasaray will officially end this summer and a return to Napoli is almost certainly off the table after his public fallout with the club.
After falling out with Napoli, the Nigerian striker moved to Turkey, where he has been sensational.
Osimhen has scored an astonishing 30 goals and provided six assists this season, reaffirming his status as one of the world’s top strikers.
Top clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Juventus are all keen on securing his services.
Where he ends up remains one of the biggest questions of the summer, but one thing is certain, Osimhen is one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.
Ademola Lookman
Ademola Lookman’s situation at Atalanta is also one to watch.
Though his contract with the Serie A side runs until 2027, reports suggest he has made up his mind to leave this summer following a fallout with manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
Tensions flared after Gasperini publicly criticized Lookman’s penalty-taking ability following a crucial miss against Club Brugge.
Since then, Fabrizio Romano and other sources have confirmed that Lookman is actively planning a move.
Lookman has had a brilliant season, scoring 18 goals and providing seven assists. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United closely monitoring his situation.
