Millwall manager Alex Neil has warned potential suitors that Nigerian winger Femi Azeez will not be allowed to leave the club on the cheap amid growing transfer interest, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Azeez has reportedly attracted attention from Premier League newcomers Hull City and several clubs across Europe, while Millwall previously rejected offers from Ipswich Town for the 25-year-old during the January transfer window.

The winger joined Millwall from Reading for just over £1 million in the summer of 2024 and has since developed into one of the club’s most influential attacking players.

Millwall are now reportedly seeking around €20 million for Azeez, with Neil insisting the club is under no pressure to sell.

“When the window’s open I don’t think we ever get distracted. Good players attract interest, it’s as simple as that,” Neil said.

The manager revealed that Azeez attracted bids in January but the club opted to retain their key players, a decision that helped Millwall finish third in the Championship.

“But like every player, every player’s got their price. What I will say is that if anybody is trying to undercut us or go cheap on it, then we don’t need to sell anybody. It puts us in a strong position in that sense.”

Neil also expressed surprise that more clubs had not joined the race for the Nigerian, given his impressive production in the Championship.

“You buy goals and assists, and Femi has been as good as anybody in the last season or two at this level. Let’s see what the next few weeks bring.”

Azeez enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 campaign, scoring 11 goals and providing eight assists in the Championship. His performances also earned him a place in the Championship Team of the Season.

With Millwall holding a strong negotiating position, interested clubs are likely to face a substantial financial commitment if they want to prise the Nigeria international away from The Den.

Nigerian forward Anas Yusuf has completed a transfer to Ethiopian Premier League side Wolaita Dicha FC from Algerian outfit JS Saoura, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

The 22-year-old attacker becomes the latest Nigerian player to make the move to Ethiopia, where he will look to continue his development and establish himself in East African football.

Yusuf previously featured for JS Saoura in Algeria before securing his transfer to Wolaita Dicha FC.

The move presents the young forward with a fresh opportunity to gain valuable experience, contribute to his new club and take another step forward in his professional career.

Arsenal have reportedly opened discussions with Turkish champions Galatasaray over the possibility of signing Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, with the Nigerian potentially emerging as part of a sensational swap deal involving the Premier League champions’ players, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Galatasaray initially contacted Arsenal regarding forwards Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, but Osimhen’s name was also brought into the discussions as the Gunners continue their search for a proven world-class striker.

Arsenal had previously explored moves for Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior and Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez. However, Vinicius has committed his future to Madrid, while Alvarez’s reported £100 million-plus valuation has made a deal difficult, with Barcelona also interested in the Argentine.

The latest development has opened the door for Osimhen, who is regarded as one of Europe’s most prolific strikers and has long been linked with a move to the Premier League.

Galatasaray are understood to be interested in Martinelli, with reports claiming the Turkish giants have already made a £38.4 million proposal for the Brazilian. They are also exploring a deal for Nwaneri, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Marseille.

During negotiations over the two Arsenal forwards, Galatasaray reportedly raised the possibility of Osimhen moving in the opposite direction, potentially paving the way for a complicated swap arrangement.

The 27-year-old Nigerian joined Galatasaray permanently from Napoli last summer for €75 million after a successful loan spell. He has since scored 59 goals and registered 16 assists in 74 appearances for the Istanbul giants, while his contract runs until June 2029.

Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s Turkish Super Lig triumph last season, finishing as the club’s leading scorer and helping them retain the title.

Martinelli, meanwhile, appears increasingly likely to leave Arsenal after seven years at the club. The Brazilian has made 278 appearances and scored 62 goals, but with his contract entering its final year, Arsenal are reportedly prepared to listen to offers.

Osimhen was also on target in Galatasaray’s 2-1 pre-season defeat to Villarreal, further underlining his importance to the Turkish champions as speculation over his future continues.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has suggested that Ethan Nwaneri could remain with the first team this season after the youngster impressed during pre-season, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The 19-year-old returned to north London following a challenging loan spell at Marseille, where his development was disrupted by changes and uncertainty surrounding the French club.

Arteta believes the experience has helped Nwaneri mature both on and off the pitch and says he has been impressed by the midfielder’s transformation since returning to Arsenal.

“He’s been really good. Probably, his loan at Marseille wasn’t what he expected. There was a lot of noise and change around the club.

“But he looks different and more mature. He’s incredible at that. That’s what six months can do to you.

“It’s a different experience to be on your own, to go through tough times and witness another part of football that you have to be good enough to cope with. I’m very happy with what he’s done in preseason.”

Nwaneri’s strong pre-season could now see him play a more prominent role in Arteta’s plans, despite previous interest from clubs across Europe and speculation that Arsenal could consider a permanent transfer.

The Hale End academy graduate remains the youngest player ever to feature in the Premier League, having made his debut at just 15 years and 181 days in September 2022.

He enjoyed a productive 2024/25 campaign, scoring nine goals in 37 appearances across all competitions before Arsenal opted to send him to Marseille during the second half of the 2025/26 season.

Nwaneri had also signed a long-term contract extension with the Gunners in 2025, and his latest pre-season performances appear to have strengthened his case for a place in Arsenal’s first-team squad.

Super Eagles striker Rafiu Durosinmi has set his sights on winning the Belgian Pro League Golden Boot after making an impressive start to the new season with Genk, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian forward opened the scoring for Genk against Zulte Waregem on Sunday, but his effort was not enough to prevent the hosts from securing a 2-1 comeback victory on the opening day.

Despite the disappointing result, Durosinmi delivered a strong individual performance and was rewarded with the Man of the Match award.

The 25-year-old is now targeting the league's top-scoring prize and hopes to emulate fellow Nigerians Paul Onuachu and Tolu Arokodare, who have previously finished as the Belgian top flight's leading scorers.

“I want to score, I want to finish high in the standings, and I also want to go for the top scorer title. I have always dreamed of that,” Durosinmi told DAZN.

The striker admitted that the defeat made it difficult to fully enjoy his individual recognition, insisting that collecting three points would have made the occasion more special.

“Of course I would have preferred to win, because then this would have been a great moment to celebrate,” he added.

Durosinmi will have another opportunity to add to his goals tally when Genk host Westerlo at the Cegeka Arena on Saturday.

Portuguese giants Benfica have reportedly identified Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo as a potential defensive reinforcement as they continue reshaping their squad ahead of the new season, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The 28-year-old has featured regularly during Chelsea’s pre-season tour of Australia and Asia, making four appearances in five matches. He completed the full 90 minutes in Sunday’s 3-3 draw against Johor Darul Ta’zim and has accumulated 208 minutes during the tour.

Despite his involvement in pre-season, Adarabioyo is reportedly not regarded as a first-choice defender under new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, with several teammates believed to be ahead of him in the centre-back pecking order.

Chelsea are consequently understood to be willing to consider offers for the Nigerian-born defender should a suitable proposal arrive.

According to Portuguese publication Correio da Manhã, Benfica are considering Adarabioyo as an option to strengthen their defence, with manager Marco Silva reportedly interested in reuniting with the centre-back.

Silva previously worked with Adarabioyo at Fulham, where the defender became an important member of the first team.

Adarabioyo left Fulham as a free agent in 2024 before joining Chelsea, where he has since made 70 appearances over two seasons.

His previous relationship with Silva and familiarity with the Portuguese coach's tactical approach could make him an appealing target for Benfica, particularly following António Silva's departure to Bournemouth.

Benfica are reportedly considering a loan deal with an option to buy rather than an immediate permanent transfer.

Such an arrangement would allow the Portuguese club to assess Adarabioyo during the season before deciding whether to make the move permanent.

Chelsea, however, could favour a permanent sale, especially after acquiring the defender on a free transfer. A permanent move would provide the London club with an immediate transfer fee while also helping with their wider squad-management plans.

For now, Adarabioyo remains a Chelsea player, but Benfica's reported interest could offer the defender an opportunity to reunite with Silva and begin a new chapter in Portuguese football.

Nigerian striker David Chidozie Okereke has completed a free transfer to newly promoted Serie B side Benevento following his departure from Cremonese, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The Italian club confirmed that the 1997-born forward has signed a contract running until June 30, 2028, with an option for an automatic one-year extension that could keep him at Benevento until 2029.

Okereke attracted interest from several clubs before deciding to continue his career in Italy, with Major League Soccer side Cincinnati and Turkish clubs Samsunspor and Gaziantep FK reportedly monitoring his situation.

Benevento eventually won the race for his signature as they prepare for their return to Serie B, with the Nigerian expected to add experience and attacking quality to the squad.

The 29-year-old has extensive experience of Italian football, having featured in both the top flight and second tier during his career.

He also spent time in Turkey on loan with Gaziantep FK, where he scored nine goals, further demonstrating his ability to contribute in front of goal.

Okereke’s pace, mobility and physical strength are expected to give Benevento additional options in attack as they prepare for the demands of Serie B.

The long-term contract reflects the club’s confidence in the Nigerian forward and his ability to make a significant contribution following their promotion.

For Okereke, the move provides an opportunity to remain in Italy and begin a fresh chapter after leaving Cremonese, while Benevento have secured an experienced striker without paying a transfer fee.

The forward will now turn his attention to pre-season preparations as Benevento build a squad capable of competing strongly in Italy’s second tier.

Former Dundee United manager Ian McCall believes Rangers should be prepared to sell Super Eagles defender Emmanuel Fernandez if a sizeable offer arrives for the Nigerian, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Fernandez has come under scrutiny following Rangers’ inconsistent start to the season, particularly after the centre-back struggled during the 1-1 draw against Dundee United and made a costly error in the 2-1 defeat to Jagiellonia Bia?ystok.

Speaking to Ibrox News, McCall suggested that Rangers would be justified in cashing in on Fernandez if a lucrative proposal is made.

“They got down the sides of them so easily, Fernandez as well,” McCall said.

“I mean, if you get a lot of money for Fernandez, it would be a no-brainer decision to sell.”

The comments come despite Fernandez enjoying an impressive first season at Ibrox.

The Nigerian defender made 28 Scottish Premiership appearances during the 2025/26 campaign and played an important role in Rangers’ defensive setup as the club finished third in the league.

His consistent performances also helped increase his profile and earned him his first call-up to the Nigeria senior national team in March 2026.

Fernandez will now be hoping to put his recent mistakes behind him and rediscover the form that made him one of Rangers’ standout performers last season as the Scottish giants look to improve their fortunes.

Saudi Arabian club Al Diriyah are preparing an improved bid for Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi after Besiktas rejected their initial €7 million offer for the Nigerian midfielder, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

According to Turkish sports newspaper Fanatik, Al Diriyah remain determined to land Ndidi and are ready to return with a higher proposal as they seek to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season.

Ndidi has become an important figure at Besiktas since joining the Turkish giants from Leicester City last summer, with his experience, leadership and defensive qualities making him a key member of the squad.

The 29-year-old recently underlined his importance to the Istanbul club after playing a decisive role in their 1-0 victory over Hradec Kralove in the UEFA Europa League qualifying round.

Having returned from an injury layoff, Ndidi came off the bench in the second half and quickly made an impact, providing the assist for Semih K?l?csoy to score the winning goal.

His performances have reportedly attracted interest from several clubs, with Al Diriyah now pushing to take him to the Saudi Pro League.

Besiktas, however, appear to be preparing for the possibility of losing their midfield anchor, with reports suggesting that the club are exploring a move for former Barcelona and AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessié on a free transfer.

For now, Be?ikta? will have to decide whether Al Diriyah’s expected improved offer will be enough to convince them to part ways with the Super Eagles skipper.

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen continued his impressive pre-season scoring form by finding the net again, although Galatasaray ended their preparations for the new campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Villarreal on Saturday, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Osimhen had also scored in Galatasaray’s 3-3 draw with French Ligue 1 side Rennes last Sunday, but his latest effort was not enough to prevent the Turkish champions from ending their pre-season on a disappointing note.

Villarreal opened the scoring just three minutes into the game when Ayoze Pérez converted from the penalty spot.

Osimhen responded almost immediately, restoring parity two minutes later to continue his run of goals ahead of the competitive season.

The Spanish side regained the lead four minutes before half-time, with Georges Mikautadze finding the back of the net to give Villarreal a 2-1 advantage.

The defeat brought Galatasaray’s pre-season campaign to an end with just one victory from five matches, alongside three defeats and one draw.

The Turkish champions will now turn their attention to competitive football when they begin the defence of their league title against newly promoted Çorum FK next Friday.

Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s title success last season, scoring 15 goals and providing five assists in 22 league appearances.

The achievement marked his second Turkish Super Lig title after winning the championship in his first season at the club during the 2024/25 campaign, when he was on loan from Napoli.

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has handed Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle a major boost ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after returning to full training with Udinese, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Okoye rejoined his teammates in regular training on Friday after recovering from the shoulder injury he suffered during pre-season in Austria, with the problem now seemingly behind him.

However, Udinese are taking a cautious approach with the Nigerian, with the club's medical team keen to give him a few more days before declaring him fully fit for competitive action.

The 26-year-old is therefore not expected to feature in Saturday's triangular pre-season tournament involving Udinese, Barcelona and Nottingham Forest.

According to TuttoUdinese, the medical staff do not want to risk Okoye's recovery in a non-competitive fixture, particularly after overseeing his rehabilitation from the shoulder problem.

Udinese's Coppa Italia meeting with Padova on August 15 has instead been identified as the goalkeeper's potential competitive return date.

His return to action will come as welcome news to Chelle, who will be hoping Okoye is fully fit and available when Nigeria begin their preparations for the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign.

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly been offered to Atletico Madrid by his representatives, with the Nigerian said to be willing to take a significant salary reduction to make the potential move happen, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Spanish journalist Ruben Uria claims that Osimhen’s agents have presented the striker to Atletico, while head coach Diego Simeone is reportedly keen on adding the Nigerian forward to his squad.

Despite the latest development, there has been no official indication of negotiations between Atletico Madrid and Galatasaray.

Osimhen has repeatedly expressed his desire to remain with the Turkish champions, although speculation over his future continues to surround the 27-year-old forward.

The Nigerian is under contract with Galatasaray until June 30, 2029, while his current market value is estimated at around €75 million.

Since arriving at the Istanbul giants, Osimhen has established himself as one of the club’s most influential players, recording 59 goals and 16 assists in 74 competitive appearances.

His 75 direct goal contributions during that period have further enhanced his reputation as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards.

For now, Atletico’s interest remains at the reported stage, with no formal agreement or negotiations confirmed between the Spanish and Turkish clubs.

Nigerian defender Miracle Usani has completed her move to Turkish women’s club ABB FOMGET Spor Kulübü after signing a two-year contract, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The 19-year-old joins the Turkish side from Nigeria Women Football League Premiership outfit Abia Angels as she begins a new chapter of her career in European football.

Usani was part of Nigeria’s squad that won the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), gaining valuable experience at international level despite her young age.

Her transfer to ABB FOMGET Spor Kulübü represents another important step in her development, with the defender now aiming to establish herself in Turkey and continue her progression at club level.

The move also provides Usani with an opportunity to gain regular exposure to European football while building on the experience she has accumulated with Abia Angels and the Super Falcons.

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi made a winning return to competitive action as his assist helped Besiktas secure a 1-0 victory over Hradec Kralove in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying-round tie, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Ndidi, who recently recovered from an injury that kept him out for the remainder of last season in Turkey, started the match on the bench before being introduced in the 76th minute for Orkun Kokcu.

The Nigerian midfielder needed just four minutes to make his impact felt, delivering the crucial pass that eventually led to Semih Kilicsoy scoring the decisive goal with a powerful header after the ball fell kindly to the forward following a rebound.

The assist provided Besiktas with a valuable advantage ahead of the second leg in Istanbul and offered manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a timely boost after his side had struggled to break down the Czech outfit.

Besiktas had created several opportunities before the breakthrough, with Kokcu and Hyeon-Gyu Oh testing the Hradec Kralove defence, while goalkeeper Alexander Nübel produced important saves to keep the hosts from finding the net.

Ndidi’s return represents a significant boost for both Besiktas and Nigeria as the experienced midfielder begins his campaign following an injury-disrupted end to last season.

Victor Osimhen has turned down an offer from Turkish champions Galatasaray to take over the vacant No. 9 shirt following Mauro Icardi’s departure, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

According to Turkish newspaper Sabah, Galatasaray officials presented Osimhen with a new jersey bearing his name and the No. 9, but the Super Eagles striker opted to retain his familiar No. 45 shirt.

Osimhen reportedly told the club hierarchy that the number has brought him good fortune and that he wants to continue wearing it.

“I expect that you will sell more jerseys, but I think you will understand me. Number 45 brought me luck at Galatasaray. I want to continue with the same jersey,” he said.

The Nigerian’s connection with the No. 45 dates back to the beginning of his European career. He first wore the number at Belgian club Charleroi, where he scored 20 goals and established himself as one of Europe’s emerging strikers.

He later wore the No. 7 at Lille and No. 9 at Napoli before returning to No. 45 following his move to Galatasaray.

Osimhen’s decision to retain the shirt has further fuelled indications that he intends to remain with the Turkish giants despite continued transfer speculation surrounding his future.

Galatasaray reportedly consider the Nigerian “untouchable”, while coach Okan Buruk has built his plans for the new season around the prolific forward.

Osimhen has also repeatedly expressed his commitment to the Istanbul club, insisting that he is happy with the relationship he has developed with the supporters.

“Galatasaray is my family, and I am very happy here. We have a very special bond. I’m not going anywhere. My only thought is to make our fans happy again…” he said.

Super Eagles defender Abdullahi Bewene has committed his future to Czech club Baník Ostrava after signing a new five-year contract, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The new agreement will keep the 21-year-old right-back at the club until June 2031, ending speculation over his future after his impressive rise through the ranks.

Bewene progressed through Baník Ostrava’s youth academy and B team before breaking into the senior side, where he has established himself as one of the club’s key defensive players.

Lud?k Mikloško, the club’s head of sports, praised Bewene’s development and believes the defender still has significant room for improvement.

“Bewe is one of the players with whom we have recently recorded very interesting performance progress. In his case, we are also convinced that he has not yet reached his ceiling,” Mikloško told the club’s official website.

He added:

“He has the parameters for top-level football, and by extending his contract, we are therefore ensuring continued cooperation with a player who has the potential to be very important for Baník in the coming seasons.”

Mikloško also revealed that the new contract reflects the club’s long-term ambitions, particularly after Bewene attracted interest from several clubs.

“I believe that with this long-term contract with a player who was in great demand on the market, we are showing our ambitions for the future.”

Bewene’s progress at club level has also earned him recognition with the Super Eagles. The defender made his senior international debut in Nigeria’s friendly against Poland in June.

He also featured in the Super Eagles’ 2-1 defeat to Portugal, further highlighting his growing importance to the national team.

The new deal gives Bewene the opportunity to continue his development at Baník Ostrava while establishing himself as a regular option for Nigeria at international level.

Bundesliga side Hamburger SV have joined the list of clubs interested in signing Super Eagles striker Terem Moffi from French Ligue 1 outfit OGC Nice this summer, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Moffi returned to Nice after spending the second half of last season on loan with Portuguese champions FC Porto, but the Nigerian forward is widely expected to leave the French club before the transfer window closes.

Nice president Maurice Cohen has already confirmed that Moffi is among the players available for transfer as the club reshapes its squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Speculation over the striker's future has intensified after he was omitted from Nice's first-team squad, a move that has further suggested his departure is imminent.

According to reports, Hamburger SV are closely monitoring the 27-year-old's situation and are considering a move as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new Bundesliga season.

Moffi's proven goalscoring record and extensive experience in French football have made him an attractive target for the German club.

The former Lorient forward is also attracting interest from Turkish Süper Lig giants Be?ikta?, who are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing the Nigerian as part of their summer recruitment drive.

Moffi joined Nice permanently in 2023 after initially arriving on loan from Lorient and has delivered several important goals for Les Aiglons, although injuries have disrupted his progress in recent seasons.

Despite those setbacks, the Super Eagles striker remains a highly rated forward across Europe, with a move away from the Allianz Riviera appearing increasingly likely as he seeks regular first-team football and a fresh start.

Nigerian goalkeeper Kayode Bankole has completed a free transfer to Tanzanian Premier League newcomers Gold Geita FC after signing a one-year contract with the club, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The 23-year-old joins Gold Geita following the mutual termination of his contract with South African Premier Soccer League side TS Galaxy.

Bankole moved to TS Galaxy in 2025 after leaving former Nigeria Premier Football League champions Remo Stars at the expiration of his contract. However, he was unable to make a competitive appearance during his spell with the South African club.

The switch to Tanzania presents the goalkeeper with an opportunity to revive his career after spending close to a year without first-team football.

Gold Geita secured promotion to the Tanzanian Premier League after winning the NBC Championship last season and will be hoping Bankole's arrival strengthens their squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

The club also boasts continental experience, having represented Tanzania in the CAF Confederation Cup during the 2022/23 season.

Manchester United are prepared to send Nigerian-eligible striker Chido Obi-Martin out on loan this summer as part of the club's plans to accelerate his development, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The Red Devils are reportedly keen on securing a move for the highly rated youngster to a club in continental Europe, believing such an environment would provide a more suitable pathway to regular senior football than a loan spell in the English Football League.

According to Danish outlet Tipsbladet, United's coaching staff have concluded that the talented forward is not yet ready for consistent Premier League action and would benefit from regular first-team minutes in a less physically demanding league.

The report adds that the club wants Obi-Martin to continue his development in a tactical setting where he can gain valuable experience while avoiding the intense physical demands associated with Championship football.

The teenager currently faces stiff competition for attacking places at Old Trafford, with Benjamin Šeško, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo all ahead of him in the senior pecking order.

Obi-Martin featured for Manchester United during their 5-0 pre-season victory over Rosenborg, coming off the bench to play the final 30 minutes. However, he was not included in the squad for the club's subsequent friendly victory over Atlético Madrid.

The highly rated striker joined Manchester United towards the end of 2024 after leaving Arsenal's academy and has since emerged as one of the club's most exciting young attacking prospects.

Premier League newcomers Hull City, Ipswich Town and Coventry City are all interested in signing England-born Nigerian midfielder Tim Iroegbunam from Everton, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

According to talkSPORT, Everton are now willing to listen to offers for the 23-year-old following their recent midfield reinforcements during the summer transfer window.

The Toffees have already completed the permanent signings of Hayden Hackney, Tyrique George and Merlin Rohl, while Arsenal midfielder Christian Nørgaard is expected to become their fourth addition after Everton agreed a deal worth around £7 million. The Danish international is scheduled to undergo a medical on Tuesday.

Nørgaard has been recruited to replace Idrissa Gana Gueye, whose contract expired at the end of last season, a move that could significantly reduce Iroegbunam's opportunities at Goodison Park.

Hull City, Ipswich Town and Coventry City have all made enquiries about the midfielder, although formal bids are yet to be submitted. Those offers are expected to arrive in the coming days.

Interest in Iroegbunam is not limited to England, with two Italian clubs also monitoring his situation ahead of the new season.

With just one year remaining on his Everton contract, the Merseyside club are prepared to cash in now rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next summer. While a loan move remains a possibility, Everton would only consider such an arrangement if it includes an obligation to buy.

Although reports have valued the midfielder at around £20 million, that figure has not been officially confirmed.

Iroegbunam began his career at West Bromwich Albion before joining Aston Villa in 2021, initially featuring for the club's Under-23 side. He made his Premier League debut in February 2022 as a substitute in Villa's 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.

The midfielder moved to Everton in June 2024 on a three-year contract in a deal reported to be worth around £9 million.

At international level, Iroegbunam has represented England at youth level, receiving his first call-up to the Under-20 squad in March 2022 for matches against Poland and Germany.