French club Stade de Reims have completed the signing of highly-rated Nigerian central defender Godwin Raphael from Grassrunners Football Academy, Footy-Africa can exclusively report.
The 18-year-old, regarded as one of the brightest defensive prospects to emerge from Nigeria in recent years, attracted interest from clubs in Sweden and Austria before opting to continue his development in France.
An official of Grassrunners Football Academy, Dimeji Lawal, confirmed to Footy-Africa that the transfer was finalised a few days ago, with the academy believing Stade de Reims offers the ideal environment for the teenager’s progression.
“The deal was concluded and signed a few days ago, and we’re delighted with his progress,” Lawal told Footy-Africa.
“He had opportunities in Austria and Sweden, but eventually we settled for France because we believe it’s the best place for him to develop as a player.”
Lawal also backed the young defender to thrive in French football, describing Raphael as a modern centre-back with the qualities required to succeed at the highest level.
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“Godwin is a very, very good defender. He’s young, versatile and has the physical profile needed for modern football, especially in his position,” he said. “He’s comfortable playing out from the back, excellent with both long and short passes, and above all, he’s a disciplined young man with the right attitude.”
“France is a very good place for his development, and that’s why we’re very happy with this move. I believe he has everything it takes to succeed there.”
Raphael has earned comparisons in Nigeria to former France international Raphaël Varane because of his composure in possession, athleticism and ability to read the game, although those close to the player believe he is determined to forge his own identity in European football.
His move to Stade de Reims represents another significant milestone for Grassrunners Football Academy, which continues to establish itself as one of Nigeria’s emerging talent factories.
The transfer is the academy’s second major European move after winger Angelo Agbejoye completed a switch to Swedish top-flight side Djurgårdens IF, underlining its growing reputation for producing players capable of making the step into European football.
