The football transfer market is, for many players, a period of tense negotiations and tough decisions as they weigh where to take their talents next.
Under existing rules, once a player enters the final year of their contract, they are free to begin talks with other clubs while mapping out their future.
Such discussions can either push their current teams into offering improved terms or provide an opportunity for a much-needed fresh start elsewhere.
A number of Nigerian stars now find themselves in this position, and footy-africa.com examines five of them whose contracts run out in the summer of 2026, making them eligible to begin discussions with potential suitors as they seek clarity on the next stage of their careers.
Victor Boniface – Werder Bremen (on loan from Bayer Leverkusen)
It has been a challenging spell for Victor Boniface since his proposed move to AC Milan collapsed in the summer. He returned to Bayer Leverkusen only to play second fiddle to Patrick Schick.
A loan move to Werder Bremen seemed like the fresh start he needed after a turbulent six months, but he is still searching for his first goal for the club after nine appearances.
Despite his lack of goals, Boniface has registered two assists and appears to be gradually regaining his rhythm. The season-long loan will ultimately determine where he heads next.
With just a year remaining on his contract, it appears unlikely that he will remain at Bayer Leverkusen, and his time at the former Bundesliga champions may be nearing its end.
Victor Boniface: 3 reasons Super Eagles star will succeed at Werder Bremen
Tyronne Ebuehi – Empoli
His spell at Empoli has been blighted by injuries, making it difficult for him to make a sustained impact since joining from Benfica in July 2022.
The right-back Tyronne Ebuehi has also fallen out of favour with the Super Eagles, with his last appearance coming in the 2–2 friendly draw against Saudi Arabia in 2023.
With a year left on his contract, sources indicate that Empoli are looking to offload the 29-year-old, who is valued at around €1 million—an affordable fee for several clubs in the Eredivisie, where interest remains strong if he can overcome his injury issues.
Joe Aribo – Southampton
The midfielder attracted interest when Southampton were relegated from the Premier League last season, but none of the talks led to a move.
Reports linked Joe Aribo with Turkish giants Besiktas and Fenerbahçe, yet no agreement was reached, and he remained with the Saints.
This season, Aribo has made only three appearances, accumulating a mere 47 minutes, a clear sign that he has become a peripheral figure at the club.
With a year left on his contract, he is expected to hold talks with the Southampton hierarchy about his future as he prepares to explore opportunities elsewhere next summer.
‘I wanted him to leave the club’: Garba on Aribo’s career in England
William Troost-Ekong – Al-Kholood
The Nigeria captain has been outstanding for the Saudi Pro League side since joining from Greek club PAOK.
William Troost-Ekong, who also captains Al-Kholood this season, has been ever-present and has featured in every match so far.
With a year remaining on his contract, the club are eager to trigger the extension clause, and reports suggest the 32-year-old is also open to extending his stay while keeping his options open.
Since signing for the club, he has played 46 matches, scored three goals, and added one assist, thereby cementing his place as one of the team’s leaders as the club works to convince him to commit to a new deal.
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Godswill Ekpolo – AEK Larnaca
Uncapped at senior level for Nigeria, the former Barcelona right-back Godswill Ekpolo is entering the final year of his contract with AEK Larnaca, who are eager to activate a one-year extension option.
He has been one of the club’s most consistent performers, featuring in nearly every match so far this season.
The 30-year-old has also played in the Europa Conference League, appearing twice and reinforcing why he remains highly regarded by the Cypriot side.
With less than a year left on his contract, interest is growing from clubs in Greece, and Larnaca may struggle to keep him should he opt for a new challenge elsewhere.
