Why Raphael Onyedika may prioritize Al Ittihad transfer over Eintracht Frankfurt move

Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika is set to leave Club Brugge this summer, but his next destination remains in the balance, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The 25-year-old defensive midfielder joined the Belgian giants four years ago and has since established himself as one of the club’s standout performers, winning multiple trophies, including the Jupiler Pro League and the Belgian Cup.

​In recent years, Onyedika has attracted interest from Premier League sides such as West Ham, Everton, Aston Villa, and Tottenham. However, those rumors ultimately came to nothing as Club Brugge opted to hold on to their key player.

​With just one year left on his contract and having decided against signing an extension, the Belgian club is now forced to cash in on the Super Eagles star this summer.

​The Race Heats Up: Frankfurt vs Al Ittihad

​Initially, pinpointing his exact destination proved difficult. However, Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt emerged as a frontrunner last week.

​Frankfurt has already opened negotiations with both Onyedika and Club Brugge, though their reported bid of up to €10 million falls significantly short of the player’s €23 million valuation.

​But to make it more interesting, Saudi Arabian heavyweights Al Ittihad have entered the race and now pose a serious threat to hijack the deal from their German counterparts.

​Why Raphael Onyedika Might Choose Al Ittihad Over Eintracht Frankfurt

​The entry of Al Ittihad into the mix is a major blow to Eintracht Frankfurt’s hopes. Saudi Arabian clubs are renowned for their financial muscle, and a modest Bundesliga club like Frankfurt will inevitably struggle to match their lucrative contract offers.

​Al Ittihad will undoubtedly tempt the midfielder with a massive salary — an offer that can be hard to turn down, particularly for an African player supporting an extended family.

Also, the financial realities of the sport mean very few Nigerian-born footballers play at the top level well into their 30s.

​Onyedika currently earns a modest salary at Club Brugge. While Eintracht Frankfurt offers European football, they are not traditionally a powerhouse where he is guaranteed to contend for major titles year after year.

​At Al Ittihad, however, he would have a strong chance of challenging for silverware while securing generational wealth before retirement.

​Should Onyedika ultimately prioritize a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, it should come as no surprise.