With the summer transfer window set to swing into full effect next month, several Nigerian players are expected to be on the move – some seeking permanent transfers, while others could see their loan deals converted into long-term stays.
However, there are also a number of players who have spent several seasons at their current clubs and may view the 2026/27 campaign as the ideal time for a fresh start.
In this feature, Footy-Africa takes a look at a few Nigerian players who have been linked with moves in recent seasons and could now benefit from a new challenge elsewhere.
Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest)
Injuries have significantly hampered the progress of the former FIFA U-17 World Cup winner, turning him into a peripheral figure at Nottingham Forest over the past two seasons.
Taiwo Awoniyi has since lost his place in the starting XI and may now be keen to secure regular first-team football elsewhere in England, which remains his preferred destination.
The former Union Berlin forward was linked with several clubs during last summer’s transfer window but opted to remain at Forest and fight for his place.
Since joining the club in the 2022/23 season, he has made 98 appearances, scoring 21 goals and providing four assists. However, this season he has featured in just 13 league matches, scoring twice. A move away could be the best option for both player and club.
Likely destinations: Burnley, West Ham, Coventry City
Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto)
Zaidu Sanusi has been a dependable servant for Porto over the past five years and recently reached the milestone of 150 appearances for the former European champions.
He joined from Santa Clara in the 2020/21 season, quickly winning over fans with his pace and defensive reliability at left-back.
Despite suffering a series of injuries that limited his involvement, the Nigerian international has consistently worked his way back and remained an important part of the squad.
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Last season, he was linked with a move to England, but the transfer failed to materialise. With just one year left on his contract and a reported valuation of €4 million, Porto could be tempted to sell rather than risk losing him on a free transfer.
Likely destination: Another top-flight Portuguese side or a move to the Premier League
Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge)
Raphael Onyedika has arguably been one of Club Brugge’s most consistent midfielders over the past three seasons, thanks to his energy, composure, and defensive strength.
He attracted significant interest last summer, including enquiries from Italian giants AC Milan and German side Hamburg.
In January, there were also strong rumours linking him with a move to the Bundesliga, but the transfer ultimately fell through.
The midfielder has made 178 appearances for Brugge, scoring nine goals and providing six assists. With his contract running until 2027, the Belgian club may look to cash in while his value remains high.
After three seasons in Belgium following his move from FC Midtjylland in 2022, it may be the right time for Onyedika to test himself in a more competitive league.
Likely destinations: AC Milan or clubs in the Bundesliga
As the transfer window approaches, all three players face pivotal moments in their careers. A well-timed move could provide the platform they need to rediscover form, gain consistency, and compete at a higher level in European football.
