Chidera Ejuke: Real reason Super Eagles star missed Sevilla’s flight to Germany & the Netherlands

Sevilla have confirmed that Nigerian winger Chidera Ejuke will not travel with the squad for their pre-season training camp in Germany and the Netherlands, Afrik-Foot reports.

This comes as the club works to complete the expected summer exit of that Super Eagles winger.

The squad departed Spain on Thursday for the next phase of preparations under head coach Luis García Plaza, but Ejuke’s name was missing from the travelling list. Rather than joining his teammates for the European training camp, the 28-year-old has remained in Seville to sort out his future, according to El Pespunte.

The decision was not linked to injury or disciplinary issues. Instead, Sevilla believe the winger is entering the final stages of negotiations over a transfer away from the club. Keeping him in Spain allows all parties to focus on completing a deal while also avoiding the risk of an injury that could delay or even collapse any ongoing negotiations.

Ejuke had already arrived late for pre-season after spending extra time resolving administrative matters and discussing his future. That delayed start also meant he was behind several teammates in terms of fitness, with the Nigerian placed on an individual training programme instead of immediately returning to full team sessions.

The former CSKA Moscow player joined Sevilla as a free agent in the summer of 2024, but after struggling to secure a regular starting place last season, both player and club now appear ready to move in different directions.

Ejuke: Sevilla balancing transfer plans and financial needs

Ejuke’s departure would also help Sevilla solve an important financial challenge ahead of the new season.

The Spanish club is rebuilding its squad and wants to reduce its wage bill while creating room for new arrivals. Selling the Nigerian international would free up both a place in the squad and valuable salary space as sporting director and club officials continue reshaping the team before the transfer window closes.

Sevilla signed him without paying a transfer fee two years ago, any sale would represent a financial gain. Reports value Ejuke at around €4 million, making him an attractive option for clubs looking for an experienced winger with pace and strong dribbling ability.

Several clubs are monitoring his situation. Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen are reported to be leading the race, while Belgian giants Anderlecht have also shown serious interest. English clubs Sunderland, Fulham and Leeds United continue to follow developments, with teams in the Saudi Pro League also said to have made initial enquiries.

Sevilla hope the transfer will be completed before the squad returns from their pre-season tour of Germany and the Netherlands. If that happens, the club can move quickly to strengthen other areas of the team before the start of the 2026-27 campaign.