Kevin Akpoguma: Three clubs Super Eagles defender could join as Hoffenheim exit looms

Super Eagles defender Kevin Akpoguma is set to become a free agent at the end of the season as he prepares to leave TSG Hoffenheim, bringing an end to his 13-year spell at the club, Afrik-Foot reports.

The German-born defender began his professional career at Karlsruhe after progressing through the club’s academy before joining Hoffenheim in 2013, where he has grown into one of the club’s best players since his arrival.

Although he initially joined Hoffenheim’s reserve team, Akpoguma eventually broke into the senior side and became a regular figure in defence. He also had loan spells with Fortuna Düsseldorf between 2015 and 2017, before spending another temporary stint at Hannover in 2019.

The 31-year-old played an important role for Hoffenheim last season as they avoided relegation, making 42 appearances across all competitions, including 32 in the Bundesliga. However, the arrival of new signings last summer reduced his playing time this season, with the Nigerian defender managing just 44 minutes in the league so far this season.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the campaign, Hoffenheim have decided not to renew his deal. He has made 201 appearances across all competitions for the German club, scoring four times and they are expected to honour him during their final home game of the season against Werder Bremen on Saturday.

With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Afrik-Foot highlights three potential destinations for the Super Eagles defender:

1. Valencia

Spanish club Valencia have emerged as a top choice to land Kevin Akpoguma once his departure from Hoffenheim is completed in the coming weeks.

The La Liga side are still battling to secure their top-flight status and may need to avoid relegation before making any move for the defender. Valencia are long-term admirers of the Super Eagles defender and could push for a move as they look to strengthen their backline that has struggled this season.

A move to Valencia could also be made easier by the presence of fellow Nigerian striker Umar Sadiq at the club, which may help Akpoguma settle quickly in Spain.

2. Hannover 96

Hannover could also be an attractive option for Kevin Akpoguma, given his previous spell with the club in 2019, after he joined them on a loan deal until the end of the season during the January transfer window.

The Nigerian defender already knows the environment and would easily adapt quickly if he returns. However, the move could depend on whether Hannover secure promotion to the Bundesliga. They are currently pushing for promotion from the German second division with two matches remaining in the season. 

If they achieve promotion, they are expected to target experienced players capable of helping them survive in the Bundesliga, making Akpoguma a qualified option.

3. Ipswich Town

English club Ipswich Town are another side that could take advantage of Akpoguma’s availability on a free transfer this summer and make a move ahead of the new season.

The Premier League newcomers are already planning ahead as they look to avoid an immediate return to the Championship and have already begun strengthening their squad early.

The Tractor Boys recently signed Nigeria-eligible forward Chuba Akpom on a permanent deal from Ajax Amsterdam and given Akpoguma’s top flight experience, he could become an important addition to their defence as they prepare for life in the English top flight.

Where could Kevin Akpoguma end up?

A journey that began 13 years ago is now reaching its end as Hoffenheim prepare to part ways with Kevin Akpoguma at the end of the season.

The defender is not expected to be short of suitors in the summer and will be careful in choosing his next destination as he hopes to rediscover his best form, which could pave a way back into the Super Eagles setup under Eric Chelle.

His next move is unknown as of now, but it is very likely the 31-year-old prefers to remain in Germany, having spent his entire professional career there. For now, Akpoguma will hope to get more minutes in Hoffenheim’s final two matches and end his long stay at the club on a positive note.