Nigerian stars on the move as summer transfer window opens

The 2025 summer transfer window officially opened on June 1, and several top Nigerian footballers are already making headlines with potential transfers, contract talks, or exits.

While some have returned to their parent clubs following loan spells, others are being monitored by top European and Middle Eastern teams. Nationaldaily reviews key Nigerian players expected to switch clubs this summer.

Victor Osimhen (Napoli → Galatasaray or Saudi Arabia?)

Victor Osimhen’s future remains undecided following a prolific loan spell at Galatasaray, where he scored 37 goals and provided seven assists. The Turkish champions are reportedly willing to pay the €75 million release clause to Napoli.

However, Saudi clubs have also expressed strong interest. Osimhen has promised to decide on his next move this week, calling it “a very difficult decision.”

Ademola Lookman (Atalanta → Arsenal, Juventus, or Napoli?) 

Fresh off a Europa League-winning season with Atalanta—capped by a memorable hat-trick in the final—Ademola Lookman is drawing interest from Arsenal, Napoli, and Juventus.

READ ALSO: I have lost respect for Finidi, says Osimhen

The 27-year-old scored 20 goals and contributed 7 assists in 39 matches. Atalanta reportedly value him at €40 million and are prepared to cash in.

Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest → Liverpool, Besiktas, or Extension?)

Aina’s contract at Nottingham Forest expires at the end of June. While the club wants to extend his stay, Liverpool, Besiktas, and even his former club Chelsea are interested. At 28, the versatile defender is weighing his options carefully.

Umar Sadiq (Real Sociedad → Spanish or Qatari Clubs?) 

Despite helping Valencia avoid relegation during his loan spell by scoring six goals in 16 matches, Umar Sadiq won’t be signed permanently due to financial constraints.

Still, clubs in Spain and Qatar are lining up to secure the 28-year-old striker on a permanent deal.

Kelechi Iheanacho (Sevilla → Uncertain Future)

Iheanacho is back at Sevilla after a disappointing loan stint at Middlesbrough, where he scored just one goal in 15 appearances. With limited opportunities at both clubs, the 28-year-old is expected to seek a new permanent move before the start of the 2025/26 season. 

Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahçe → Premier League?)

Osayi-Samuel’s contract with Fenerbahçe expires this June, and salary negotiations have stalled. The 27-year-old defender is being tracked by Premier League side Everton, though it remains unclear whether Fenerbahçe will meet his wage demands or let him go.

Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest → Exit Likely)

After a difficult season plagued by injuries, Awoniyi has fallen behind Chris Wood in Forest’s attacking pecking order. With the club considering Bournemouth striker Evanilson as a replacement and facing Premier League financial rule constraints, a summer exit looks likely. 

Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan → Fulham or Saudi Arabia?)

Chukwueze has failed to impress at AC Milan and is no longer part of the club’s future plans. With only three goals in 24 Serie A matches, the 25-year-old could be on the move again, with Fulham and Saudi clubs previously showing interest.

Expert Speaks: “Choose Clubs with Guaranteed Game Time”

Football development expert Ibrahim Lawal, speaking, advised Nigerian players to prioritize regular playing time over prestige in their transfer decisions.

READ ALSO: Juventus eyeing Nigerian duo Osimhen and Lookman to bolster attack

“The summer transfer window is a critical time for our players,” Lawal said. “I wish them all good luck, especially Osimhen, Lookman, Chukwueze, and others attracting offers. But they must choose clubs where they’ll play regularly.

The AFCON and World Cup qualifiers are coming, and Nigeria needs match-fit players.”

Lawal also praised the inclusion of NPFL players like Sodiq Ismail (Remo Stars) and Papa Daniel (Niger Tornadoes) in the Unity Cup and the Super Eagles squad, saying their exposure can boost local football development.

As the summer window unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see where these Nigerian stars land—and how their decisions will shape the future of the national team.