Super Eagles: How Valencia move could force Chelle to consider Ehizibue for Nigeria

Valencia have identified Nigerian defender Kingsley Ehizibue as a key target as they look to strengthen their squad before the new La Liga season, Afrik-Foot reports.

Interestingly, a move to Spain could also revive Ehizibue’s long-standing dream of playing for the Super Eagles.

According to reports from Spanish outlet Plaza Deportiva, the former Udinese full-back has emerged as one of Valencia’s leading options after becoming a free agent when his contract expired on June 30. The defender spent four seasons with the Serie A club before negotiations over a new deal broke down, allowing interested clubs to sign him without paying a transfer fee.

Valencia’s interest gathered pace after other defensive targets failed to arrive. Reports in Spain claim experienced Belgian defender Thomas Meunier was considered, but talks never progressed, leaving Ehizibue as an attractive alternative because of his experience and availability.

The Dutch-born Nigerian enjoyed another solid campaign in Italy, making 32 Serie A appearances during the 2025-26 season. He scored two goals and helped Udinese keep eight clean sheets while showing he could play both as a traditional right-back and as a wing-back. His pace, strength in the air and ability to cover large areas of the pitch have also attracted interest from Torino, while Udinese are reportedly considering whether to reopen discussions over a fresh contract.

Why Valencia could open the Super Eagles door

A move to Valencia, one of Spain’s most successful clubs, could finally give Ehizibue the platform he needs to enter Eric Chelle’s plans for Nigeria.

The Super Eagles have regularly searched for consistency at right-back in recent years. Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel have often filled the role, but injuries and unavailability has forced Chelle to turn to youngsters Abdullahi Bewene and Christian Akpan in recent times. If Ehizibue becomes Valencia’s first-choice right-back and performs consistently in La Liga, he would offer Chelle another specialist option ahead of future international windows.

Playing for Valencia would also place him under a brighter spotlight than ever before. Weekly matches against clubs such as Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid would bring greater attention from scouts, the Nigeria Football Federation and the Super Eagles coaching staff. Strong performances in the Spanish La Liga would be difficult to ignore.

The move could also help prove his tactical flexibility. While Udinese frequently used him as a wing-back in a back-three system, Valencia are more likely to use a traditional back four. Showing he can defend effectively in that setup would strengthen his case for international selection, especially if Chelle continues to favour a four-man defence.

There is also the unfinished business surrounding his international career. Ehizibue received an invitation from former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr in 2020, but administrative issues linked to his international eligibility prevented him from making his senior debut. A transfer to a high-profile club like Valencia could provide stronger institutional support as documentation is completed, while regular football in Spain would keep his name firmly in the conversation.

A transfer to Valencia could provide the opportunity that finally turns a long-held international ambition into reality and gives Chelle’s Super Eagles another experienced solution.