As the 2024 summer transfer window nears its conclusion, with just seven days remaining, clubs across Europe are scrambling to finalize their squads for the new season. Nigerian footballers have been at the heart of the action, with several high-profile moves, renewals, and potential transfers making headlines.
However, some Super Eagles stars are still in limbo, awaiting crucial moves to reignite their careers or secure their futures. Here, with just one week of the transfer window to go, we take a look at five Nigerian players who need a transfer before the window slams shut.
Ahmed Musa – Free Agent
The 31-year-old winger has been without a club since mutually terminating his contract with Turkish side Sivasspor in February. Since then, Musa has been focused on his business ventures in Nigeria, leaving fans and pundits questioning his future in football.
Despite his age, the Super Eagles captain de jure remains an experienced and versatile forward, having played in the Netherlands, England, Russia, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. His trophy cabinet is adorned with titles from three continents, but his playing career seems to be in a state of uncertainty.
With no official word on retirement, Musa could still have a role to play at a new club, potentially adding a wealth of experience to a squad in need.
Stanley Nwabali – Chippa United
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been the subject of intense transfer speculation following his standout performances at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, where he kept four clean sheets as Nigeria finished runners-up.
The 28-year-old's future remains uncertain, with several clubs reportedly interested in his services.
PSL giants Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs have both been linked with Nwabali, as well as English Championship side Queens Park Rangers. Additionally, Saudi Pro League outfit Al Ettifaq also showed interest in the Nigeria number one.
Despite these links, no concrete offers have materialized, leaving Nwabali in a precarious position as the transfer window closes. A move to a higher-profile league could be the next step in his career, provided a suitable offer comes through in time.
Francis Uzoho – Omonia Nicosia
The Super Eagles goalkeeper has seen his stock fall after losing his place in Nigeria’s starting lineup to Stanley Nwabali during the AFCON. His lack of regular game time at Omonia Nicosia has only compounded the issue.
Uzoho, who was once hailed as Nigeria’s future number one, has struggled to establish himself as a first-choice goalkeeper at club level.
With 36-year-old Fabiano ahead of him in the pecking order, Uzoho's opportunities have been limited, leading to speculation that he could be on the move. A transfer to a club where he can play regularly would not only boost his confidence but also revive his international career.
Paul Onuachu – Southampton
Paul Onuachu’s career took a turn for the better when he joined Trabzonspor on loan last season, following a disappointing start at Southampton. \
The towering Super Eagles striker rediscovered his form in Turkey, scoring 17 goals and providing four assists in 25 appearances.
Trabzonspor expressed a desire to make Onuachu's move permanent, offering €7 million plus €2 million in add-ons. However, Southampton rejected the bid, holding out for a €12 million (£10.3 million) fee, a figure Trabzonspor cannot meet due to budget constraints.
With Onuachu keen to continue his resurgence, a compromise between the clubs could still be reached, or another suitor may step in before the transfer window closes.
Victor Osimhen – Napoli
Victor Osimhen has been the most sought-after striker in Europe following his stellar season with Napoli, where he led the club to their first Scudetto in 33 years.
The Super Eagles forward has been linked with several top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal and Chelsea.
Osimhen has already agreed personal terms with PSG, but the French giants need to offload a player before making a formal bid. Napoli, meanwhile, have set a €130 million release clause, making any potential move a complex negotiation.
With just days left in the window, Osimhen’s future remains one of the most intriguing storylines of the summer transfer window.