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From Osimhen to Oshoala: 15 Nigerian Stars who headlined 2025/26 summer transfer

Anthony Nlebem
6 Min Read

The 2025/26 summer transfer window closed on Monday, September 1, 2026, and several Nigerian players were on the move, sealing deals across Europe and beyond. From record-breaking transfers to deadline-day surprises, Super Eagles and Super Falcons stars made headlines as they sought fresh challenges and regular playing time.

This summer proved once again that Nigerian players remain hot properties across the global transfer market, with moves ranging from the Premier League and Serie A to Turkey, France, and Saudi Arabia.

Here’s a roundup of the major Nigerian transfers this summer:

Victor Osimhen – Galatasaray (€75m)

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen dominated the window after completing a sensational €75m move to Galatasaray, setting a new Turkish transfer record. The 26-year-old, who spent last season on loan in Istanbul, signed a four-year deal that makes him one of the highest-paid players in Turkey. Napoli will also benefit from a 10% sell-on clause.

Paul Onuachu – Southampton To Trabzonspor

Paul Onuachu left Southampton to join Turkish giants Trabzonspor after two-and-a-half years at St. Mary’s. The 31-year-old striker scored four goals for the Saints before sealing his return to the Süper Lig.

Read also: Top 10 Nigerian Footballers in Europe Right Now: A Tactical and Analytical Overview

Wilfred Ndidi – Beşiktaş (€8m)

Wilfred Ndidi ended his nine-year stay at Leicester City to join Beşiktaş on a three-year contract with an option for a fourth. The 28-year-old midfielder will wear the No. 4 shirt. During his time with the Foxes, Ndidi won the FA Cup, Community Shield, and played over 300 matches.

Moses Simon – Paris FC

Moses Simon switched French clubs this summer, joining Paris FC on a three-year contract. The 29-year-old winger will bring experience and creativity to the capital side.

Henry Onyekuru – Gençlerbirliği (Free Transfer)

Henry Onyekuru returned to Turkey, signing a two-year contract with Gençlerbirliği after leaving Saudi club Al-Fahya on a free transfer.

Cyriel Dessers – Panathinaikos (£3.5m)

Cyriel Dessers completed a permanent switch to Panathinaikos after two years at Rangers, where he scored 52 goals in 82 starts. The 30-year-old forward signed a three-year deal and is eager to win a league title in Greece.

Christantus Uche – Crystal Palace (Loan)

Deadline day saw 22-year-old Christantus Uche move to Crystal Palace from Getafe. The dynamic forward described the switch as “unbelievable” and a huge opportunity in the Premier League.

Read also: Ten most valuable Nigerian football stars with over €315m valuation

Samuel Chukwueze – Fulham (Loan)

After a frustrating stint at Milan, Samuel Chukwueze joined Fulham on loan. The 26-year-old winger links up with compatriots Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, and will wear the No. 19 shirt at Craven Cottage.

Victor Boniface – Werder Bremen (Loan)

Despite a failed medical at AC Milan, Victor Boniface secured a season-long loan move to Werder Bremen. The 24-year-old striker will look for more playing time after struggling for minutes at Leverkusen.

Kelechi Iheanacho – Celtic (Free Transfer)

Kelechi Iheanacho signed a one-year contract with Celtic as a free agent after leaving Sevilla. The deal includes an option to extend for another year.

Tolu Arokodare – Wolves (£24m)

Prolific striker Tolu Arokodare joined Wolves in a £24m deal after winning the Belgian Pro League Golden Boot with 21 goals last season. The 24-year-old becomes one of Wolves’ marquee signings as they aim to boost their attack.

Gift Orban – Hellas Verona (Loan)

Gift Orban moved to Serie A side Hellas Verona on loan, with the Italian club covering his wages and paying a €1m fee. The 23-year-old will look to reignite his career in Italy after spells in Belgium, France, and Germany.

Read also: From Uche to Ejuke: Nigerian stars lighting up La Liga

Rasheedat Ajibade – PSG

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade sealed a high-profile move to PSG Féminine on a deal running until June 2027. The 25-year-old described the transfer as a defining moment in her career.

Asisat Oshoala – Al Hilal

Six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala joined Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia after just one season with Bay FC in the NWSL. The 30-year-old striker signed a two-year contract following her medical in Riyadh.

Sikiratu Isah – Bnot Netanya

Super Falcons defender Sikiratu Isah moved to Israeli side Bnot Netanya, where she reunites with fellow Nigerian Mercy Omokwo. Fresh from winning the WAFCON in Morocco, Isah will look to make her mark in Europe.

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Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.