Super Eagles: 5 clubs want Tim Iroegbunam – Which would boost a dream Nigeria call-up?

Everton midfielder Tim Iroegbunam is back in the transfer shop with five clubs now competing for his signature ahead of the 2026/27 season, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 23-year-old, who came through Aston Villa’s academy before joining Everton, is attracting interest from clubs in England and Italy as uncertainty grows over his future at Goodison Park.

The powerful defensive midfielder has just one year remaining on his Everton contract, making this transfer window the club’s best opportunity to receive a fee instead of risking losing him for nothing next summer.

The transfer battle carries extra importance for Nigeria. Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is understood to be keeping a close eye on Iroegbunam, who is eligible to represent Nigeria despite featuring for England at youth level. The Malian coach has identified the Everton man as one of the midfielders capable of strengthening the national team in the coming years, especially with Wilfred Ndidi entering the later stages of his career.

Five clubs join race for Everton midfielder

The strongest interest has come from two newly-promoted Premier League sides Ipswich Town and Frank Lampard’s Coventry City. Both have reportedly made enquiries as they look to strengthen their midfield before the new campaign. Ipswich believe Iroegbunam has the physical strength and Premier League experience needed to help the club survive in England’s top flight.

Hull City have also stepped up their pursuit. The Tigers are interested in either signing the midfielder permanently or taking him on loan with an obligation to buy. Such a deal would reduce Everton’s immediate financial risk while guaranteeing a future transfer.

Interest is also coming from Italy. Two unnamed Serie A clubs have contacted Everton to ask about the midfielder’s availability. Italian clubs have followed Iroegbunam for several months after Lazio reportedly saw a bid rejected during the January 2026 transfer window.

Everton are prepared to negotiate because manager David Moyes has strengthened his midfield options this summer. The arrivals of Hayden Hackney and Merlin Röhl have increased competition, while the club is also close to completing a reported £7 million move for Arsenal midfielder Christian Nørgaard. Earlier in the transfer window, Everton were believed to value Iroegbunam at around £20 million, but reports now suggest they are open to structured loan agreements that include an obligation to complete a permanent transfer.

Which move gives Iroegbunam the best Super Eagles chance?

If Iroegbunam wants to improve his chances of receiving a first Super Eagles call-up from Chelle, remaining in one of Europe’s top leagues appears to be the smartest option.

A move to either Coventry City or Ipswich Town stands out as the strongest choice. Regular Premier League football would allow him to face elite opposition every week while staying in the league most closely watched by Nigeria’s coaching staff. Consistent performances could also help speed up any international switch from England to Nigeria.

A transfer to Serie A would also be a strong outcome. Italian football has developed many outstanding defensive midfielders over the years, and excelling in one of Europe’s biggest leagues would almost certainly keep him on Chelle’s radar.

Hull City would provide another Premier League platform if the newly-promoted club can establish itself in the division. Playing alongside experienced Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi could also help Iroegbunam settle into a squad with Nigerian influence, although Hull may spend much of the season battling relegation.

As Chelle continues to rebuild Nigeria’s midfield ahead of the next round of AFCON and World Cup qualification campaigns, Iroegbunam’s next club could play a major role in deciding when – and if – the talented midfielder finally pulls on the green and white jersey.