Nigeria midfielder Kelechi Nwakali has agreed a deal to join Cypriot side Omonia 29is after leaving Barnsley, Footy-Africa can exclusively report.
Nwakali’s agent, Allwell Nwakali, told Footy-Africa that the midfielder is currently with the club and has agreed a one-year contract with the Cypriot First Division club.
The 28-year-old is expected to undergo his medical before being officially unveiled by Omonia 29is on Monday.
Nwakali has opted for the move in search of regular first-team football after a difficult spell at Barnsley.
The midfielder joined the League One club in August 2024 but struggled for consistent playing time. He was left out of the first-team squad for a significant period towards the end of the season and trained with the reserves before returning to the squad.
He made four substitute appearances towards the end of the campaign, playing 52 minutes in total.
New Barnsley boss Daniel Stendel key to Nwakali’s decision to stay
Despite the arrival of Daniel Stendel, who was understood to be an admirer of the Nigerian international, Nwakali has now decided to pursue a fresh challenge in Cyprus.
His agent said the one-year deal reflects the player’s desire to play regularly and rebuild his career.
Nwakali, a former Arsenal player, previously played in Spain and Portugal before moving to Barnsley. He was also part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.
The move to Omonia 29is will give the midfielder an opportunity to establish himself in Cyprus and work towards returning to the Nigeria national team.
