Femi Azeez transfer: Is Super Eagles star’s EPL dream over after Ipswich Town snub?

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Super Eagles winger Femi Azeez has not hidden his dream of playing in the Premier League even if that wish has recently suffered a setback, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 24-year-old Nigeria international enjoyed a brilliant 2025/26 season in the Championship with Millwall and looked ready to step up to the Premier League. His performances caught the attention of newly promoted Ipswich Town, among several others. Ipswich identified him as one of their main attacking targets during the summer transfer window.

However, Ipswich’s opening bid has already been rejected, while the club’s busy recruitment drive has raised fresh questions about whether they are still likely to pursue the Nigerian international.

Even so, there are still several reasons why Azeez could end up playing in England’s top flight before the transfer window closes.

Super Eagles forward Femi Azeez
Super Eagles forward Femi Azeez. Copyright: xToyinxOshodixIMAGO

Ipswich make Azeez a top transfer target

Ipswich, after securing promotion to the Premier League, entered the summer determined to strengthen the attack for new manager Gary O’Neil.

Among the players they wanted most was Azeez and the Tractor Boys submitted an opening offer worth £20 million, hoping it would be enough to convince Millwall to sell.

Instead, the London club immediately rejected the proposal. Millwall remain in a strong position because Azeez is under contract until 2028, meaning they are under no pressure to cash in unless their asking price is met. Reports suggest the Lions value the winger at around £30 million, significantly higher than Ipswich’s first offer.

It is easy to understand why Millwall are standing firm. Azeez scored 11 goals and provided eight assists in 37 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 season. His consistency earned him a place in the EFL Championship Team of the Season.

His reputation has also grown on the international stage. After switching his allegiance to Nigeria, Azeez enjoyed a dream Super Eagles debut at the Unity Cup by scoring twice in a 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe.

However, it is surprising that while Azeez looks ready-made for the Premier League, Ipswich Town have not made another push to sign the Super Eagles star midway through the transfer window.

While negotiations over Azeez have stalled, Ipswich have been extremely active elsewhere in the transfer market.

Super Eagles attackers Femi Azeez and Terem Moffi. Copyright: xManjitxNarotraxIMAGO

The Premier League newcomers have already completed five permanent signings this summer, with much of their spending focused on improving their attack.

The biggest arrival was Brazilian striker Emersonn, who joined from Toulouse in a club-record £26.5 million deal.

Ipswich also signed Ghana international Abdul Fatawu from Leicester City for £20 million, while former Ajax striker Chuba Akpom completed a permanent move after his loan spell.

At the back, defender Cédric Kipré arrived from Stade Reims, while goalkeeper Kayne van Oevelen joined from FC Volendam.

Those signings, especially Emersonn, Fatawu and Akpom, have strengthened Ipswich’s attacking options considerably.

As a result, it is no longer clear whether the club still sees Azeez as a priority or whether they have decided to move in a different direction after Millwall rejected their first offer.

Why Azeez’s Premier League dream is still alive

Despite the latest developments, there is little evidence to suggest Azeez’s Premier League ambition has disappeared.

The biggest reason is that Ipswich are not the only club interested.

Premier League sides Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, Bournemouth, and Everton have all been monitoring the winger after his outstanding campaign.

Villa’s interest could become especially important as they continue rebuilding their squad following Morgan Rogers’ reported £117 million move to Chelsea, creating space for another attacking player.

There is also every chance Ipswich could return with an improved offer. Opening bids are often rejected during transfer negotiations, particularly when a selling club believes a player’s value is still rising. With Millwall holding out for around £30 million, the gap between the two clubs is financial rather than personal.

Finally, Azeez’s stock has never been higher. His Championship performances, Team of the Season recognition, and dream Super Eagles debut have significantly increased his profile. Clubs now see him as a player capable of making the step up to Premier League football.

Ipswich’s first attempt may have failed, and their recent signings have complicated the picture. But with several top-flight clubs still watching closely and the transfer window remaining open, Azeez’s Premier League dream remains very much alive.

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Imhonlamhen

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Eronmhonsele Imhonlamhen is a sports writer covering Nigeria, with 10+ years in sports media and a Reuters Digital Journalism certification. A bettor for over 15 years, he specialises in football odds and responsible gambling, and has used operators including Bet9ja, SportyBet, Nairabet and BetKing.