The summer transfer window officially opened on June 1, with several top Nigerian footballers expected to switch clubs ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Victor Osimhen, who spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Turkish champions Galatasaray from Napoli, remains undecided about his future. The striker, who netted an impressive 37 goals with seven assists across all competitions, promised last week to announce his decision within days.
"I'll make my final decision regarding my transfer within a week. It will be a very difficult decision for me," Osimhen stated. Galatasaray has reportedly shown willingness to trigger his €75 million release clause, while Saudi Arabian clubs have also expressed interest.
Ademola Lookman is another Nigerian star likely to secure a major move. The Atalanta forward, who scored 20 goals with seven assists in 39 appearances last season, has attracted attention from Arsenal, Juventus, and Napoli. Lookman's stock rose significantly after his hat-trick in Atalanta's 3-0 UEFA Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen. His current valuation stands at approximately €40 million.
Other Nigerian Stars on the Move
Ola Aina's contract with Nottingham Forest expires this month, with Liverpool, Besiktas, Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Manchester City reportedly interested in the defender. Forest is keen to retain him, but his future remains uncertain.
Umar Sadiq, who impressed during his loan spell at Valencia with six goals in 16 appearances, won't be signed permanently by the Spanish club due to financial constraints. However, other clubs in Spain and Qatar are reportedly interested in the striker.
Kelechi Iheanacho has returned to Sevilla following his loan at Middlesbrough, where he managed one goal and two assists in 15 appearances. The 28-year-old is expected to seek a permanent move away from the Spanish club this summer.
Bright Osayi-Samuel's contract negotiations with Fenerbahçe have stalled over salary demands, with Everton among the Premier League clubs monitoring his situation.
Taiwo Awoniyi could depart Nottingham Forest as the club pursues Bournemouth striker Evanilson. Awoniyi, who joined Forest for £17.5 million in 2022, has struggled with injuries, losing his starting position to Chris Wood.
Samuel Chukwueze may leave AC Milan this summer, with the club reportedly willing to listen to offers. The winger has failed to make a significant impact since joining from Villarreal, scoring just three goals in 24 league appearances last season.
Speaking to Daily Post, football development expert Ibrahim Lawal advised Nigerian players to prioritize regular playing time when choosing new clubs.
"My message to these Super Eagles players is that they should join clubs that will guarantee them more regular game time, not clubs where they would struggle for minutes," Lawal said. "The World Cup qualification is coming and also the AFCON, so [Super Eagles coach Eric] Chelle will need players playing regularly for their clubs."
Lawal also expressed hope that players from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) would secure moves to European clubs this summer, noting that such transfers would boost the domestic league and encourage home-based talent.
