Nigerian footballers have consistently impressed with their skills and talent, catching the eyes of Europe’s elite clubs. From the last two African Footballer of the Year award winners—Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman—here are the top Super Eagles stars currently attracting interest from top European sides.
1. Victor Osimhen
The 26-year-old is one of the most sought-after strikers in football today, attracting interest from Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea, while he recently rejected a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
Victor Osimhen is coming off the back of a very impressive season on loan at Galatasaray, winning the Turkish Golden Boot and leading the club to a league and cup double. The former Lille striker also became the highest-scoring foreign player in a single Turkish league season, breaking a 24-year record set by Mario Jardel.
Related article: Victor Osimhen’s Current Salary and the €50M Offer He Walked Away From
Despite having just one year left on his contract at Napoli, Osimhen could leave if his €75 million release clause is met by a top European club.
2. Ademola Lookman
African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman has also drawn interest from Barcelona and Arsenal, following impressive performances over the last three seasons for La Dea. The 27-year-old is available for around €50 million and could be on the move before the end of the transfer window.
3. Victor Boniface
Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface was close to leaving the club in January after agreeing terms with Al Nassr, although the Saudi club ultimately signed Colombian striker Jhon Duran instead. With Xabi Alonso’s departure to Real Madrid, Boniface could be set for a reunion with his former coach. He has also been linked with a move to Premier League champions Liverpool.
4. Cyriel Dessers
Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers is expected to leave the club this summer, with Greek side AEK Athens the most likely destination. The Scottish club is planning a summer overhaul following another disappointing campaign, and the 30-year-old Nigerian striker looks set to depart after two years in Glasgow.
5. Samuel Chukwueze
Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has attracted interest from Arsenal, Real Betis, and former club Villarreal. Chukwueze has shown flashes of brilliance since joining AC Milan but has struggled with consistency and could leave the Rossoneri if a suitable offer comes in.
6. Paul Onuachu
Southampton striker Paul Onuachu is also attracting interest from Turkish sides Besiktas and Trabzonspor.
The 31-year-old is no stranger to the league, having impressed during a loan spell at Trabzonspor two years ago, and a reunion could be on the cards this summer.
Related article: Three Possible Destinations for Paul Onuachu as Southampton Exit Looms
7. Tolu Arokodare
After a standout season with Genk in the Belgian league, Tolu Arokodare has caught the attention of clubs such as José Mourinho’s Fenerbahce and Portuguese giants Benfica. The 24-year-old, highly rated Nigerian striker, could be set for the next big move of his career following two hugely successful years in Belgium.
