The football transfer market is often shaped by contract situations, with players entering the final months of their deals becoming hot topics of discussion.
Whether it’s negotiating extensions or leaving on a free, decisions made during these periods can have long-lasting implications for clubs and players alike.
Here, Afrik-Foot picks out the Super Eagles stars in Europe who have entered the final six months of their contracts.
Super Eagles 6 months away from free agency
Ola Aina
Aina’s future at Nottingham Forest is one of the most intriguing storylines.
The 28-year-old Super Eagles defender joined Forest during the 2023/24 season after a spell with Torino in Serie A.
While he has impressed in England, his current contract expires in June 2025, leaving Forest eager to secure an extension.
Reports suggest Aina is keen to remain in England, but speculation is mounting around a potential move to Manchester City as a replacement for the ageing Kyle Walker.
Forest, however, remain determined to keep the Nigeria international, but as things stand, he is eligible to negotiate with foreign clubs as it stands.
Bright Osayi-Samuel
The Super Eagles full-back's contract with Fenerbahçe runs until June 2025, but negotiations for an extension have hit an impasse.
Osayi-Samuel is reportedly demanding an annual salary of €2.5 million, while Fenerbahçe are only willing to offer €1.5 million.
This standoff has sparked interest from Premier League clubs such as Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and Everton, as well as Ligue 1 side Marseille.
While the 27-year-old has expressed a willingness to remain in Turkey, the delay in reaching an agreement could open the door for a move elsewhere.
Gabriel Osho
Osho’s future at AJ Auxerre is closely tied to the club’s performance in Ligue 1.
Osho joined Auxerre on a one-year deal with an option for a further year. However, the club’s ability to avoid relegation will likely determine whether he stays.
Auxerre currently sit eighth in the Ligue 1 standings, with 21 points from 15 games—eight points clear of the relegation zone.
The Super Eagles newbie has featured in 12 of those matches, solidifying his role in Christophe Pelissier’s squad. Should Auxerre maintain their top-flight status, an extension seems probable.
Jordan Torunarigha
Jordan Torunarigha’s contract with Belgian side KAA Gent expires in June 2025, making him an appealing option for clubs seeking defensive reinforcements.
The 27-year-old has been linked with Serie A side Monza, who reportedly tabled a €3.5 million bid last summer, as well as Premier League club West Ham and Italian teams Bologna and Torino.
Despite being sidelined for the first five matches of the 2024/25 season due to transfer speculation, Torunarigha has since made 18 appearances.
His solid performances have only heightened interest, leaving Gent with a decision to make as the defender approaches the final 6 months of his deal.
Semi Ajayi
The lanky Super Eagles defender faces an uncertain future at West Bromwich Albion as his contract approaches its June 2025 expiration.
Ajayi has been sidelined since November 2024 with a hamstring injury, ruling him out for at least four months.
With West Brom pushing for Premier League promotion, it remains unclear whether the club will offer Ajayi an extension.
Having joined West Brom in 2019, the 31-year-old has been a consistent fixture when fit. However, his age and recent injury history could make the club hesitant to commit to a new deal.
Honourable mentions
Several other Super Eagles stars are navigating uncertain contract situations, including
- Tyronne Ebuehi (Empoli, Serie A)
- Jamilu Collins (Cardiff City, EFL Championship)
- Odion Ighalo (Al-Wehda, Saudi Pro League)
- Henry Onyekuru (Al-Fayha FC, Saudi Pro League)
- Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa, Turkish Super Lig)
