Ex-Southampton forward Victor Udoh found dead in Abuja

Former Southampton F.C. and Royal Antwerp F.C. forward Victor Udoh has died at the age of 21 in Nigeria, with early reports describing the circumstances surrounding his death as “under suspicious circumstances.”

According to reports cited by The Mirror UK, Udoh was found dead in Abuja, although authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause of death as investigations continue.

The report added that the young striker had recently returned to Nigeria after completing his spell with Czech side Dynamo České Budějovice, which he joined following his departure from Southampton in 2025.

Udoh had previously signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with Southampton but spent around seven months at the English club without making a senior appearance. He later left by mutual consent in search of regular first-team football.

Before his move to England, the forward developed at Royal Antwerp in Belgium, where he progressed through the club’s system after arriving from Abuja-based Hypebuzz. He impressed at youth and reserve level, scoring 12 goals in 21 appearances, before going on to make 28 senior appearances for the Belgian side.

READ ALSO: 18-year-old Italian footballer, Anwar Megbli dies after falling from motorcycle

During his early career in Europe, Udoh was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s promising young attacking talents, with scouts and analysts noting his pace, movement and finishing ability during his time in Belgium.

His death has sent shockwaves through football circles in Nigeria and among clubs he previously represented, as tributes and reactions continue to emerge.

At the time of filing this report, further details surrounding the circumstances of his death were still unclear, and official confirmation from Nigerian authorities was awaited.