Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones has explained why the Championship club moved to bring Nigeria international goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo to The Valley, with the coach impressed by the shot-stopper’s performances against his side last season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Okonkwo has joined the Addicks on a season-long loan from Wrexham, with Jones delighted to secure the services of the highly rated goalkeeper ahead of the new campaign.

The Charlton boss revealed that Okonkwo caught his attention during Wrexham’s two meetings with Charlton last season, producing outstanding saves in both encounters.

“I’m delighted to bring Arthur to the club. We know how good a goalkeeper he is; he made two world-class saves against us last season, one in each game we played against Wrexham,” Jones said.

Jones also pointed to the goalkeeper’s willingness to join Charlton as another factor behind the club’s decision to pursue the deal.

“He also showed a real desire to come to us after our initial meeting, which was important for us,” he added.

The manager believes Okonkwo’s quality, experience and physical presence will strengthen his squad, particularly highlighting the 6ft 6in goalkeeper’s ability between the posts.

“He’s an excellent shot-stopper, of good pedigree, with good experience and the teams he’s played in have done well, so I'm looking forward to working with him,” Jones concluded.

Okonkwo began his professional career at Arsenal before gaining experience through loan spells and later establishing himself at Wrexham.

The 24-year-old will now aim to secure regular playing time at Charlton and make a strong impact during his season-long spell with the Championship outfit.

Nigerian striker Joseph Arumala has completed a permanent transfer to Egyptian Premier League side Al Ittihad from Nigeria Premier Football League club Ikorodu City, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 22-year-old forward joins the Alexandria-based club after an impressive 2025/26 campaign with Ikorodu City, where he emerged as one of the league’s standout attackers.

Arumala scored 13 goals and provided two assists for the Oga Boys last season, although his goalscoring form was not enough to secure continental qualification for Ikorodu City, who finished fourth in the NPFL.

The striker joined Ikorodu City ahead of the 2025/26 season and quickly established himself as an important member of the squad. His pace, direct running and finishing ability also made him a popular figure among the club’s supporters.

Following the completion of the transfer, Ikorodu City paid tribute to the youngster and wished him success in his new adventure in Egypt.

“Good luck in Egypt with @itthadalexsc ?? Joseph Arumala.

“We wish you the best ??,” the club wrote on X.

Arumala will now look to build on his impressive spell in the NPFL as he begins a new chapter in Egyptian football with Al Ittihad.

Trabzonspor have reportedly set a €30 million asking price for Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu, with Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli continuing to explore a move for the Nigerian forward, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Onuachu’s future has become a major talking point this summer, despite only returning to Trabzonspor permanently last season. Al Ahli are understood to be the most serious suitors and are expected to hold another meeting with the Turkish club this week as they seek to negotiate a potential transfer.

The 32-year-old is reportedly open to leaving Trabzonspor, although any move will depend on whether the Saudi club can meet the Turkish side’s valuation.

Onuachu returned to Trabzonspor following a successful loan spell at the club during the 2023/24 season while contracted to Southampton. His permanent return proved highly successful, with the striker scoring 26 goals in all competitions last season.

Twenty-two of those goals came in the Turkish Super Lig, earning him a share of the Golden Boot alongside Istanbul Basaksehir forward Eldor Shomurodov. Onuachu was also instrumental in Trabzonspor’s Turkish Cup triumph, scoring twice in the 2025 final as they defeated Konyaspor 2-1.

Trabzonspor had previously rejected two offers for the striker and were initially determined to retain their prolific forward. However, their stance is believed to have softened as they close in on the signing of former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez from Al Hilal.

Should Nunez complete his move to Trabzonspor, the Turkish club would have a ready-made replacement for Onuachu, potentially making it easier for the Nigerian to leave.

Al Ahli are not the only club to have shown interest in the striker. Turkish giants Fenerbahce previously considered a move but have reportedly ended their pursuit after turning their attention to Romelu Lukaku, who has joined the club from Napoli.

Al Hilal could also emerge as a potential destination for Onuachu. The Saudi giants have already been linked with Victor Osimhen and could consider the Trabzonspor forward as an alternative should their pursuit of other attacking targets fail.

For now, Onuachu remains a Trabzonspor player, but with Al Ahli pushing for his signature and another round of talks expected, his future could be decided in the coming days.

Nigerian defender Chukwuma Eze has completed a season-long loan move to Spanish club Villarreal from Real Oviedo, with the 22-year-old set to spend the 2026/27 campaign with Villarreal B as he continues his development in Spain, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Villarreal confirmed the arrival of the centre-back through an announcement on the club’s official website. Eze joined Real Oviedo from Nigerian academy Ajuwa Academy in 2021 and has since progressed through the Spanish club’s youth ranks.

The defender has gained valuable experience through loan spells with CD Llanes, L’Entregu FC and Real Avilés. Last season, he featured 18 times for Real Avilés, further developing his experience and reputation.

His progress has also earned recognition from Real Oviedo, with the club recently extending his contract until 2029. Eze made his senior debut for Oviedo against Levante in April 2025.

The move to Villarreal B provides the Nigerian with another opportunity to secure regular playing time while benefiting from the club’s renowned player-development structure.

Eze will now aim to establish himself as an important part of Villarreal B’s defence during the 2026/27 season and continue his push towards regular first-team football in Spanish football.

Several Bundesliga clubs have reportedly entered the race to sign Nigerian midfielder Anthony Dennis, with growing interest in the Goztepe star ahead of the new season, writes Nigeriasoccernet.com.

According to transfer expert Ekrem Konur, Hoffenheim, Mainz, Augsburg and Stuttgart are among the German clubs monitoring the 22-year-old defensive midfielder. Dennis has also attracted interest from clubs in England, Spain and Turkey.

Goztepe reportedly rejected a €3.3 million offer from Belgian Pro League side Anderlecht last summer, with the Turkish club now believed to value Dennis at around €8 million. However, a potential deal could cost interested clubs close to €10 million.

Dennis joined Goztepe from HB Academy Abuja in July 2023 and has since developed into an important player for the Turkish Super Lig outfit.

The midfielder, who has previously received an invitation to the Super Eagles, has one year remaining on his current contract at Goztepe, increasing speculation over his future.

A move to the Bundesliga could represent a significant step in Dennis' development, with several German clubs now reportedly keeping a close eye on his situation.

Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has completed a £9 million transfer from Nottingham Forest to Coventry City, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigeria international was given a public farewell by Forest supporters at the City Ground on Sunday during the club’s 2-0 pre-season victory over Brest.

Awoniyi expressed his excitement about beginning a new chapter with Coventry and linking up with his new teammates.

“I am very excited about this season, and I can’t wait to get started.”

“I’m really looking forward to working with my new teammates. I have seen how amazing they have been last season, coming up from the Championship.”

“They were incredible, and now I am just excited to join them.”

The 29-year-old joins Coventry after struggling for consistent playing time at Nottingham Forest last season. His move is expected to provide him with an opportunity to play more regularly and rediscover his best form.

Awoniyi, who has earned 10 caps for Nigeria, will now begin preparations for the new campaign with Coventry as the club returns to the Championship with ambitions of competing at the top end of the division.

Nigerian international Peter Olayinka is set to continue his career in Saudi Arabia after agreeing to a move to Al Wehda FC, the former club of Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 30-year-old winger and forward is expected to join the Mecca-based club after previously featuring for European sides including Slavia Prague, Red Star Belgrade and APOEL Nicosia. Reports indicate that the proposed deal will earn Olayinka around €2.5 million annually.

Al Wehda, known as the Knights of Mecca, currently compete in the Saudi First Division League after suffering relegation from the top flight. The club will be hoping Olayinka’s experience and attacking quality can help them mount a strong promotion challenge.

Born in Ibadan, Olayinka has earned four caps for Nigeria since making his Super Eagles debut in 2019.

His move to Al Wehda will see him follow in the footsteps of Ighalo, who spent two seasons with the Saudi club between 2023 and 2025.

The transfer represents another opportunity for Olayinka to experience a new league and contribute to Al Wehda’s push to return to the Saudi Pro League.

Coventry City have reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest to sign Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi on a permanent transfer, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the agreement on Saturday, revealing that the 29-year-old is already undergoing his medical ahead of completing the move.

“EXCLUSIVE: Coventry City agree deal to sign Taiwo Awoniyi from Nottingham Forest, here we go! ??”

Romano added that the deal is permanent and will see Awoniyi become a new attacking option for Coventry manager Frank Lampard.

The Nigerian striker will link up with Super Eagles teammate Frank Onyeka at Coventry as he looks to revive his career after struggling for regular playing time at Nottingham Forest.

Awoniyi joined Forest from Bundesliga side Union Berlin in 2022 but found opportunities limited last season, making 17 league appearances and scoring four goals while providing one assist.

The forward has subsequently fallen behind Chris Wood and Igor Jesus in Forest’s attacking pecking order, making a move away from the City Ground increasingly likely.

The switch to Coventry is expected to provide Awoniyi with the regular playing time he needs to rediscover his best form and re-establish himself as an important option for Nigeria.

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.

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 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.

Nigerian midfielder Peace Efih has completed a permanent transfer to Greek Women’s A Division club Panathinaikos, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The 25-year-old joins the Greek giants after spending two seasons with OFI Crete, where she scored 14 goals in 40 appearances.

Efih expressed her excitement after completing the move, revealing her ambition to help Panathinaikos win the league title.

“I am very excited to have signed with Panathinaikos. I look forward to scoring many goals and helping the team achieve its main goal, which is winning the Championship. I can’t wait to get started,” Efih told the club’s official website.

Efih began her career with former Nigeria Women Football League champions Rivers Angels before featuring for Bayelsa Queens.

The midfielder has built extensive experience abroad, representing Sporting de Huelva and Zaragoza CFF in Spain, Kiryat Gat in Israel, Braga in Portugal and OFI Crete in Greece.

At international level, Efih progressed through Nigeria’s youth teams, representing the Flamingos at the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup before featuring for the Falconets at the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Her performances at youth level eventually earned her promotion to the Super Falcons, completing her progression through Nigeria’s women’s national teams.

Efih will now begin a new chapter with Panathinaikos as she looks to contribute to the club’s title ambitions in the upcoming campaign.

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.

Former Barcelona midfielder Andrés Iniesta has urged the Catalan club to pursue the signing of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, describing the Nigerian as the ideal long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

Barcelona are searching for a new centre-forward following Lewandowski's move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire earlier this summer.

Osimhen and Julián Álvarez were previously linked with the Spanish champions, but Barcelona reportedly cooled their interest in the Nigerian due to the financial implications of a potential transfer, including his valuation and wage demands.

Speaking to NTV Spor, Iniesta praised teenage sensation Lamine Yamal but insisted the youngster should not be deployed as a central striker.

The Barcelona legend also urged sporting director Deco to prioritise signing Osimhen if Ferran Torres leaves the club.

"Lamine Yamal is a fantastic player, but I wouldn't prefer him playing as a number 9. If Ferran Torres leaves, I would strongly advise Deco to sign a striker.

"I don't think Atletico Madrid will let Julian Alvarez go. I would suggest they sign Victor Osimhen. He's a fantastic goalscorer and one of the best replacements for Robert Lewandowski."

Despite continued speculation surrounding his future, Turkish champions Galatasaray are now reportedly prepared to retain Osimhen after initially indicating a willingness to consider offers for the prolific Super Eagles striker.

Osimhen remains one of Europe's most sought-after forwards following another impressive campaign, with his goalscoring pedigree continuing to attract admiration from leading figures across the football world.

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.

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.