With the winter transfer window gradually approaching, several Nigerian players are expected to make moves in search of new challenges, bigger opportunities and the next steps in their careers. One player who could be on the move in January is Solomon John, who is closing in on a transfer to Czech top-flight side Viktoria Plzeň, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
His current club, Mladá Boleslav, are understood to have agreed a deal with Viktoria Plzeň for the 21-year-old defender, with the transfer reportedly worth €3 million.
A source in Lagos, Nigeria, who is close to the player from his time at Remo Stars, told Footy-Africa that John could have secured a move last season, but Mladá Boleslav’s decision to hold on to him has ultimately worked in their favour.
“Solomon did well last season, and there were a lot of rumours that he was going to move. However, the money those clubs were offering did not meet his club’s valuation, so they decided not to sell,” the source said. “At that time, they felt it would be better to keep him, based on what I gathered from the player, and he also wanted continuity with the club.”
“Plzeň and Sparta Prague were both looking at him, and when Viktoria came up with the money, Boleslav decided to sell because it is a huge fee for a league like theirs. So, they sanctioned the move. It is a good move for the player from several angles, and one can only wish him the best when he eventually joins Viktoria Plzeň in January.”
The proposed move comes just weeks after John committed his future to Mladá Boleslav by signing a new three-year contract in October.
However, the club now appear ready to sanction a lucrative transfer that would see the Nigerian move to one of the leading sides in the Chance Liga.
’We play the best football in the Czech Republic’ — Solomon John on contract extension
John’s rise has been a story of perseverance. After spending almost two seasons without a club, the 25-year old worked his way back into professional football before earning an opportunity with Mladá Boleslav.
His performances subsequently attracted interest from several clubs across Europe, with sides in France, Belgium and Spain, as well as Major League Soccer in the United States, reportedly monitoring his progress.
Despite the interest, Mladá Boleslav were initially reluctant to part ways with the defender, particularly after he signed his contract extension, which is understood to keep him at the club until 2029.
The decision to secure his future was also seen as a way of protecting the club’s investment amid growing interest in his services. With Viktoria Plzeň now reportedly meeting their valuation, Mladá Boleslav are set to cash in on the Nigerian.
John’s numbers this season underline his growing influence. He has featured in 14 matches, scoring three goals and providing three assists.
Last season, he recorded five goals and two assists in 34 appearances across all competitions, impressive numbers for a player operating in defence.
