Raphael Onyedika: 2 reasons Super Eagles star wants Club Brugge exit as Frankfurt talks continue

Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika is determined to leave Belgian champions Club Brugge this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

Onyedika’s decision was confirmed after the former FC Midtjylland star rejected Club Brugge’s offer of a new contract.

The 25-year-old Nigerian has entered the final year of his current deal, a decision that has placed Club Brugge under pressure to sell him before the transfer window closes. If the club keeps him beyond this season without a new agreement, they risk losing him for nothing when his contract expires next year.

Onyedika’s decision is driven by two major reasons. First, he believes this is the right time to test himself in one of Europe’s top five leagues after spending three successful seasons in Belgium. The Nigeria international midfielder has developed into one of Club Brugge’s most important players, impressing both in the Belgian Pro League and in the UEFA Champions League.

The second reason is his changing role towards the end of last season. According to reports from Belgian outlet Voetbal24, Onyedika became concerned after seeing his regular starting place become less secure during the closing weeks of the campaign. The midfielder now feels a move would provide the fresh challenge he has been seeking.

This desire is not new. During the January transfer window, Onyedika wanted to leave after attracting serious interest from Germany’s VfL Wolfsburg and Turkish champions Galatasaray. However, Club Brugge refused to sell because they wanted to keep a key midfielder as they chased another Belgian league title. The player eventually agreed to remain until the end of the season with the understanding that he would be allowed to consider offers during the summer.

Onyedika: Frankfurt still interested as more clubs watch

Eintracht Frankfurt have once again emerged the strongest candidates to sign Onyedika.

According to German publication Kicker as per Tribuna, the Nigerian midfielder remains on Frankfurt’s shortlist as the Bundesliga club looks to strengthen its defensive midfield before the new season begins. The report adds that discussions between the parties have not yet reached an advanced stage, but Frankfurt’s interest remains genuine after following the player during the previous two transfer windows.

Frankfurt are not alone in the race. Galatasaray have renewed their efforts after previously agreeing personal terms with the midfielder. Head coach Okan Buruk reportedly sees Onyedika as an ideal addition and would like him to line up alongside fellow Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen.

Premier League clubs Aston Villa, West Ham United and Everton have also been linked with the midfielder, while European heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and AC Milan have all been credited with monitoring his performances following his impressive displays in the Champions League.

Club Brugge initially valued Onyedika between €25 million and €40 million, hoping to maximise the fee for one of their most valuable players. However, with only one year remaining on his contract, reports suggest the Belgian champions are now prepared to accept an offer between €20 million and €23 million rather than risk losing him on a free transfer in 2027.

Having already won domestic honours in Belgium and established himself as a leading Nigerian midfielder in Europe, the coming weeks could finally deliver the transfer Onyedika has been waiting for.