Super Eagles striker Gift Orban has completed a season-long loan move to newly promoted Turkish Süper Lig side Amedspor from Bundesliga club Hoffenheim after ending his spell with Italian outfit Hellas Verona. The deal includes an obligation to buy that could see the Nigerian remain with the Turkish club on a long-term contract if the agreed conditions are met.
According to the player’s agent, Atta Aneke, the project presented by Amedspor convinced Orban that it was the right destination for the next stage of his career.
“Gift believes Amedspor are an ambitious club with a clear project and a huge fan base,” Aneke told Footy-Africa. “After speaking with the club, he felt their vision matched his own ambitions. He is excited to join them and help the team achieve its goals this season.”
“He is delighted to move to Turkish football because he knows it is a highly competitive league that has been home to many successful Nigerian players. Gift is looking forward to the challenge, settling in quickly and contributing to the team’s journey in the top flight,” added Aneke, who also represents Super Eagles stars Akor Adams, Victor Boniface and Chidera Ejuke.
The move marks another chapter in the 24-year-old’s eventful European career as he looks to rediscover the form that established him as one of Africa’s most exciting young forwards.
Orban spent last season on loan at Verona, where he scored seven goals and provided three assists in 29 Serie A appearances. Despite his impressive contribution, the club were unable to avoid relegation from Italy’s top flight.
Fresh from securing promotion to the Süper Lig for the first time in their history, Amedspor have strengthened their squad significantly ahead of their debut campaign, with Orban expected to play a leading role in the club’s ambitions this season.
Orban first made his name in Europe with Norwegian side Stabæk before enjoying a prolific spell at Belgian club KAA Gent, where he scored 32 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions.
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His outstanding form earned him a €12 million move to French side Lyon in January 2024.
Following spells at Lyon, Hoffenheim and Verona, the Nigerian striker will now hope a fresh start in Turkey provides the platform to reignite his career and fulfil his immense potential.
