Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has excluded star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman from Nigeria's squad for the upcoming Unity Cup match against Ghana and international friendlies against Russia.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially released the list of invited players on Wednesday afternoon, confirming the notable absences of the two key attackers who have been instrumental for both club and country in recent times.

While the full reasons for their exclusion have not been detailed, the squad sees the return of several experienced players including goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, midfielder Frank Onyeka, forward Kelechi Iheanacho, and veteran captain Ahmed Musa.

Osimhen, who recently received recognition in Turkey where a former Besiktas coach named him Player of the Season, has been the subject of transfer speculation with reports suggesting Galatasaray is "ready to pay anything" to secure his services.

Lookman, who has been in impressive form for his club, will also miss the opportunity to represent Nigeria in these fixtures as Chelle appears to be exploring other options within the squad.

The Unity Cup match against Ghana represents an important regional rivalry, while the friendly against Russia offers the Super Eagles a chance to test themselves against European opposition as they continue their development under Chelle's leadership.

Further details regarding the complete squad list and match schedules are expected to be announced by the NFF in the coming days.