With AFCON and World Cup qualifiers ahead, these 7 Nigerian players can’t afford to waste another season, a transfer window lifeline is their only shot.
The summer transfer window is a time of hope and fresh starts for many footballers.
For some Nigerian stars, a move isn’t just about career progression, it’s about reigniting their passion, reclaiming their form, and proving their worth on bigger stages.
Here are seven Nigerians who desperately need a transfer this summer to revive their careers and fulfill their immense potential.
1. Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, on loan from Napoli)
Osimhen, 26, was a sensation at Galatasaray, scoring 37 goals during his loan from Napoli and driving the Turkish side to a domestic double in 2024/25.
Yet, with his loan ended, his future is uncertain. Galatasaray want a permanent deal, but Juventus are circling, especially with Dusan Vlahovic’s contract talks faltering.
Osimhen’s reported high wages and Napoli’s steep demands complicate matters, but a permanent move to a top European club is essential to sustain his elite status and avoid another temporary stint.
2. Ademola Lookman (Atalanta)
At 27, Lookman is at his peak, boasting 52 goals and 25 assists in 118 games for Atalanta, including a historic Europa League final hat-trick in 2024.
Arsenal have him on their radar, and his consistent brilliance demands a step up to a top-tier league.
Staying at Atalanta risks stalling his growth, as he’s already proven himself in Serie A. A transfer to a club like Arsenal could elevate Lookman’s career and cement his role as an African superstar.
3. Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough, on loan from Sevilla)
Kelechi Iheanacho’s career has hit a wall. After struggling for minutes at Sevilla, the 28-year-old striker moved to Middlesbrough on loan in winter 2025 but has failed to impress.
With just a year left on his Sevilla contract and no clear role at Middlesbrough, Iheanacho needs a permanent transfer to a club where he can rediscover his Leicester City form and revive his Super Eagles prospects.
4. Umar Sadiq (Valencia, on loan from Real Sociedad)
Sadiq, 28, hoped his winter 2025 loan to Valencia would spark a career revival after injuries hampered his time at Real Sociedad.
The Nigerian did regain some form at Los Che, but it seems Valencia are hesitant to meet Real Sociedad’s asking price for a permanent deal.
Sadiq’s talent is clear, but he needs a stable environment with regular minutes. A permanent move, perhaps to a mid-table La Liga side or back to Serie A, could help him regain his confidence and form.
5. Emmanuel Dennis (Nottingham Forest)
Once a dynamic winger at Watford, Emmanuel Dennis, 27, has faded at Nottingham Forest, managing just 25 appearances and two goals since 2022.
Sidelined and far from the Super Eagles’ plans, Dennis needs a fresh start to showcase his flair and versatility.
A transfer to a less competitive league, like the Eredivisie or Belgian Pro League, could provide the platform he needs to rebuild his career before it’s too late.
6. Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge)
Onyedika, 24, has been a linchpin for Club Brugge, logging more minutes than any Nigerian player in 2024/25 and starring in their Belgian Pro League title win two seasons ago.
The combative midfielder’s work rate and consistency have drawn interest from top-five leagues.
Staying at Brugge risks capping his potential, and a transfer to the Premier League or Bundesliga could propel him to new heights and solidify his Super Eagles role.
7. Victor Moses (Luton Town)
At 34, Victor Moses’ time at Luton Town was lacklustre, with just one goal in 18 league appearances since joined in 2024.
Moses’ limited impact led to his eventual departure and he needs a new role. A transfer to a club where he can mentor younger players or secure more minutes.
Maybe a move to a lower-tier league or abroad could offer the former Super Eagles winger a chance to end his career on a high note.
These seven Nigerian stars face decisive moments in their careers. Osimhen and Lookman need clubs that match their world-class ambitions, while Iheanacho, Sadiq, and Dennis require fresh starts to rediscover their form.
Onyedika is primed for a bigger stage, and Moses needs a fitting final chapter. The summer 2025 transfer window is their chance to reset, shine for their clubs, and bolster the Super Eagles’ future.
