With the close of the January transfer window across major European leagues, there was significant movement involving Nigerian footballers as several players secured new clubs in search of regular playing time, fresh challenges, or career progression.
One of the standouts moves saw Ademola Lookman leave Serie A side Atalanta for Spanish giants Atletico Madrid, settling in immediately by scoring and providing an assist on his debut against Real Betis.
Frank Onyeka also completed a move from Brentford to Coventry City, while Rafiu Durosinmi joined Pisa in Italy, and teenage winger Sani Suleiman secured a high-profile switch from AS Trencin to RB Leipzig, among other notable transfers.
However, it was not all smooth sailing for every Nigerian player.
Despite being strongly linked with moves away from their respective clubs, some highly rated stars saw potential transfers collapse before the window slammed shut.
In this feature, Footy-Africa profiles five Nigerian players who were linked with moves this January but ultimately remained with their clubs—or are still searching for new homes.
January transfer window. Semenyo and three other most expensive African transfers
Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge)
The energetic midfielder has been consistently linked with a move away from Club Brugge since last summer.
AC Milan were reportedly interested during the off-season, while Bundesliga side Wolfsburg emerged as suitors during the January window. Despite the interest, none of the deals materialised, and Raphael Onyedika remains in Belgium.
With his stock still rising, the upcoming summer transfer window could prove decisive for the Super Eagles midfielder’s next career step.
Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas)
Nigeria captain Wilfred Ndidi joined Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas from Leicester City last season, but speculation surrounded his future once again this winter.
Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam were reportedly keen on a late move, but negotiations failed to progress. Ndidi has since expressed satisfaction with life at Besiktas and is expected to see out the season with the Black and Whites.
The loss of his father during the period of speculation may also have influenced his decision to stay put.
Stanley Nwabali (Free Agent)
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been at the centre of transfer rumours for over a year following his impressive AFCON performances.
He was widely expected to leave Chippa United during this window, but despite interest from multiple clubs, the South African side initially refused to sell.
Matters eventually came to a head, with both parties agreeing to part ways amicably. Nwabali is now a free agent and remains available to sign for any club.
Orlando Pirates and Simba SC among clubs interested in Stanley Nwabali
Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest)
Injuries have disrupted Taiwo Awoniyi’s last year at Nottingham Forest, sparking rumours of a possible January exit in search of consistent playing time.
A move to West Ham United or a Championship side was widely touted, but nothing came of the speculation.
Now back to fitness and among the goals, Awoniyi will finish the season at the City Ground, hoping to impress either to secure his long-term future at Forest or attract suitors ahead of the summer.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio)
After a promising start to life at Lazio, midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru endured a difficult spell marked by injuries and reduced minutes.
This fuelled talk of a potential loan move during the winter window, especially following his involvement with Nigeria at the last Africa Cup of Nations.
In the end, all rumours faded, and Dele-Bashiru remains in Rome, determined to fight his way back into regular contention.
