Turkish giants Fenerbahçe S.K. have intensified efforts to sign Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey as they prepare for a major squad rebuild ahead of the new season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian international has emerged as one of Fenerbahce’s priority transfer targets following another frustrating domestic campaign for the Istanbul club, who extended their Turkish Super Lig title drought to 13 years.

According to reports in Turkey, club president Aziz Y?ld?r?m is expected to travel to London to open discussions over a possible deal for the versatile defender.

Bassey has attracted strong interest after another impressive season with Fulham F.C. in the Premier League, where he established himself as one of the club’s most reliable performers.

The 25-year-old joined Fulham from AFC Ajax in 2023 in a transfer reportedly worth €22.5 million and has since become a key figure in the team’s defensive setup.

Since arriving at Craven Cottage, the Super Eagles star has made over 100 appearances for the London club, contributing four goals and one assist while impressing with his strength, recovery pace, and defensive awareness.

Fenerbahce are believed to value Bassey at around €28 million and are reportedly confident they can meet Fulham’s demands if negotiations progress positively.

The defender’s contract situation could also influence talks, with reports suggesting he has only one year remaining on his current deal at Fulham.

A potential move to Turkey could become attractive for Bassey financially, especially with reports indicating that Fenerbahce are prepared to offer improved personal terms as they continue strengthening their squad for next season.

Nigeria international Terem Moffi is reportedly attracting interest from French side ES Troyes AC and Serbian giants FK Partizan as uncertainty grows over his future ahead of the summer transfer window, reports NigeriaSoccernet.com.

The Super Eagles forward, who is currently with Nigeria at the Unity Cup in London, ended the season on loan at FC Porto, where he contributed to their Portuguese league title-winning campaign. However, the Portuguese club have decided against making the move permanent, leaving his parent club OGC Nice facing a decision over his next step.

Moffi’s situation has opened the door for multiple suitors across Europe, with reports also linking him in the past to clubs in the Premier League, Serie A, and Turkey. Despite a challenging spell in recent months, he remains one of Nigeria’s most experienced forwards in Europe, with a strong scoring record in Ligue 1 built over several seasons.

The 27-year-old now returns to the transfer market as clubs weigh up a potential move for the striker ahead of the new season.

English Championship side Wrexham A.F.C. have celebrated goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo after he made an impressive debut for the Super Eagles in their 2-0 Unity Cup semi-final win over Zimbabwe.

Okonkwo was in goal as Nigeria defeated Zimbabwe to book a place in the final of the invitational tournament in London, marking a major milestone in his international career. The club praised his achievement, highlighting his rise and consistency at both club and international levels.

https://twitter.com/Wrexham_AFC/status/2059402780737970571?s=20

The 23-year-old shot-stopper is expected to build on the experience as he continues to push for a regular place in the Super Eagles setup ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has expressed appreciation to supporters of Wolverhampton Wanderers despite a disappointing 2025/26 Premier League campaign that ended in relegation, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian forward reflected on a difficult season for Wolves, who finished bottom of the table after managing just three wins and collecting only 20 points. Despite the struggles, he said the backing from fans remained constant and meaningful throughout the campaign.

Arokodare admitted the season was far from ideal but highlighted personal positives, including some memorable individual performances during the run-in. He noted that the experience, though painful collectively, still offered moments he values as part of his development at the club.

The striker also extended gratitude to the fans via social media, stressing that their support during tough periods was deeply appreciated. Wolves, however, could not escape relegation after a season defined by inconsistency, defensive lapses, and missed opportunities in key matches.

Arokodare ended the season as Wolves’ joint top scorer in the league with three goals and added further contributions across all competitions. Since joining from Belgian side Genk, he has been part of a squad now preparing for life in the Championship next season, with his future at the club still the subject of transfer speculation.

Former Manchester United F.C. defender Patrice Evra believes Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen would be the ideal signing for the Red Devils ahead of next season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Osimhen, who currently plays for Turkish champions Galatasaray S.K., has continued to attract interest from several European giants following another impressive campaign.

The Nigerian international has previously been linked with Premier League clubs Manchester United and Chelsea F.C., while Spanish heavyweights Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona are also reportedly monitoring his situation.

Speaking to GOAL, Evra named Osimhen as the one player he would love to see Manchester United sign during the next transfer window.

“Osimhen. I have great respect for Galatasaray, the love they have for him, and the kind of player he is,” Evra said.

“Manchester United need a proper striker. If you want to compete in every competition, you need more strikers.”

The former France international also stressed the need for reinforcements in other positions but insisted Osimhen could make the biggest difference at Old Trafford.

Evra joins former United striker Louis Saha among ex-players who have publicly urged the club to pursue the Nigerian forward.

Saha previously described Osimhen as a “transformational signing” capable of handling the pressure associated with leading the line for Manchester United.

The former Napoli striker has built a reputation as one of Europe’s most complete forwards after successful spells in France, Italy and Turkey, while also impressing regularly in the UEFA Champions League.

Osimhen’s leadership role in helping S.S.C. Napoli win their historic Serie A title further strengthened his status as one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.

Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho rounded off his late-season resurgence in style after scoring in Celtic F.C.’s 3-1 win over Dunfermline Athletic F.C. to lift the Scottish Cup title, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian striker came off the bench in the final and netted Celtic’s third goal as the club completed a domestic double, having already secured the Scottish Premiership crown earlier in the campaign.

Iheanacho showed sharp instinct for the finish after being played through by Benjamin Nygren, calmly evading defenders and the goalkeeper before slotting home from close range.

The goal capped what has become a strong end to the season for the former Leicester City striker, whose early months in Scotland were disrupted by injury and inconsistent form.

After joining Celtic on a one-year deal following his departure from Sevilla FC, Iheanacho initially struggled to settle, with questions raised over his fitness and role in the squad amid managerial changes at the club.

However, he gradually regained form in the final stretch of the season, becoming a key attacking option for the Scottish champions.

He previously scored a decisive late winner against Dundee and also played a starring role in Celtic’s cup run, including a brace in the semi-final victory over St Mirren F.C.

The Scottish Cup triumph marks the sixth major trophy of Iheanacho’s senior career, adding to a collection that includes the FA Cup, EFL Cup, Community Shield, EFL Championship title, and Scottish Premiership crown.

Attention now turns to his future, with the Nigerian forward approaching the final stages of his one-year contract at Celtic.

Former England international Chris Waddle has urged Newcastle United F.C. to make a move for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen in the upcoming transfer window, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Waddle described Osimhen as a perfect fit for the Premier League, praising his intensity, movement, and all-around work rate.

“I like Victor Osimhen,” Waddle wrote on the BoyleSports blog.

“He works very hard. I’ve watched him five or six times this year in Turkey, and I like his work ethic. He’s a player who wants to win…”

The former Newcastle player added that Osimhen’s physical presence, mobility, and technical ability make him an ideal centre-forward for the English top flight.

Osimhen, widely regarded as one of the best strikers in world football, has been linked with several top clubs, including Real Madrid CF and FC Barcelona.

The 27-year-old joined Galatasaray S.K. in a record €75 million move last summer after a loan spell with the Turkish giants.

He enjoyed another prolific season, scoring 22 goals and providing eight assists in 33 appearances across all competitions, helping Galatasaray to a domestic league title and a UEFA Champions League Round of 16 finish.

Waddle concluded that Osimhen’s consistency and mentality would make him a major asset for any Premier League side, especially Newcastle, if he becomes available in the transfer market.

Nigerian forward Anthony Nwakaeme has expressed his happiness after ending his time with Trabzonspor on a winning note following the club’s Turkish Cup success, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Trabzonspor secured a record 10th Turkish Cup title after battling to a 2-1 victory over Konyaspor in Friday night’s final.

Fellow Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu scored both goals for Fatih Tekke’s side in the keenly contested encounter, while Nwakaeme remained an unused substitute.

Speaking after the triumph, the experienced winger said it was important for the team to reward the supporters for their loyalty and backing throughout the season.

“We won the cup. I told my teammates that we had a very good season and that we needed to win the cup,” Nwakaeme told the club’s official website.

“We are very happy to have given the cup to our fans who came all this way.”

Nwakaeme first joined Trabzonspor from Israeli side Hapoel Be'er Sheva in 2018 and quickly became one of the club’s most influential players.

During his initial four-year spell, the Nigerian helped Trabzonspor win the Turkish Super Lig, Turkish Cup and Turkish Super Cup.

The 37-year-old returned to the club in 2024 after a two-year stint with Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Fayha FC.

In the just-concluded campaign, Nwakaeme registered one goal and three assists in 21 appearances for the Black Sea Storm.

Ahead of the Turkish Cup final, the Nigerian and veteran Bosnian winger Edin Viš?a were both honoured by the club with special appreciation plaques for their contributions and dedication to Trabzonspor.

The awards were presented by club president Ertu?rul Do?an alongside senior club officials.

Tolu Arokodare could leave Wolverhampton Wanderers FC this summer following the club’s relegation from the Premier League, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian striker only joined Wolves from Belgian side KRC Genk last summer in a deal reportedly worth €24 million.

However, Arokodare has struggled to make a major impact during his debut campaign at Molineux, managing just three league goals in 28 appearances for the Old Gold.

According to talkSPORT, Wolves are now prepared to consider a loan move for the 25-year-old as they look to reshape the squad ahead of next season.

The report added that the club is aware that a permanent transfer may prove difficult at this stage due to the striker’s inconsistent performances in the Premier League.

Despite his challenging season in England, Arokodare still retains a market value estimated at around €18 million, with interest from clubs across Europe expected to be monitored during the transfer window.

Turkish giants Trabzonspor are reportedly demanding at least €40 million for Nigerian defender Chibuike Nwaiwu amid growing transfer interest from several European clubs, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 22-year-old centre-back has attracted attention following a string of impressive performances in Turkey, with Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen believed to be among the clubs monitoring his progress.

Premier League side Fulham FC is also said to be keeping tabs on the defender as they assess options to strengthen their backline amid uncertainty surrounding the futures of Calvin Bassey and Issa Diop.

According to reports from Turkish outlet Dik Futbol, several clubs have already tabled offers in the region of €20 million for the highly-rated Nigerian.

Trabzonspor, however, is reportedly unwilling to entertain any bid below €40 million, with the club convinced that Nwaiwu’s value will continue to increase because of his age, consistency, and long-term potential.

The defender only joined the Black Sea Storm from Austrian side Wolfsberger AC in January, but has already established himself as an important figure in the squad.

He contributed three goals and one assist in 16 league appearances during an impressive second half of the season.

Chelsea’s decision to appoint Xabi Alonso could mark the start of another major rebuild at Stamford Bridge, with the former midfielder expected to reshape the squad ahead of a fresh push for domestic and European success, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Following another underwhelming campaign, the London club is believed to be targeting players capable of fitting into Alonso’s tactical philosophy, which centres on structured possession, aggressive pressing, and intelligent movement.

Among the names that could suit the Spaniard’s style are three Nigerian internationals whose qualities align with the demands of modern Premier League football.

Maduka Okoye

Maduka Okoye has emerged as a potential option as Chelsea continues their search for a reliable long-term goalkeeper.

The Udinese shot-stopper has impressed in Serie A with his composure, reflexes, and confidence in possession, attributes considered vital in Alonso’s preferred buildup system.

With questions still surrounding Robert Sánchez and Filip Jørgensen, Okoye’s consistency and growing maturity could make him an attractive solution between the posts.

Calvin Bassey

Calvin Bassey is another player who could naturally fit Alonso’s tactical setup.

The Fulham defender offers pace, physicality, and versatility, qualities Chelsea have lacked during periods of defensive inconsistency in recent seasons.

Capable of operating as a centre-back or left-back, Bassey would provide valuable flexibility, particularly in systems that rely on a high defensive line and aggressive recovery runs.

His experience in the Premier League also reduces the adaptation risks often associated with foreign signings.

Victor Osimhen

Among the trio, Victor Osimhen is widely viewed as the player capable of transforming Chelsea’s attack.

Despite heavy spending in forward areas over recent years, Chelsea have continued to struggle for goals and attacking consistency.

Osimhen’s blend of pace, power, aerial dominance, and relentless pressing makes him one of Europe’s most complete strikers.

The Napoli forward’s proven scoring record and ability to lead the line aggressively could provide the cutting edge Chelsea have lacked since the departure of Diego Costa.

With Alonso expected to demand immediate progress from his squad, physically dominant and tactically disciplined players such as Okoye, Bassey, and Osimhen could become ideal targets as Chelsea prepare for another rebuilding phase.

Maduka Okoye has been named Udinese Player of the Month for May after a string of impressive performances for the Serie A side, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian goalkeeper earned the recognition following a strong run of form that saw him play a key role in the club’s defensive stability during the month.

Okoye’s rise is particularly notable given his difficult start to the campaign, having missed the opening months due to suspension linked to an alleged match-fixing investigation.

Despite that setback, the 26-year-old fought his way back into the starting lineup and re-established himself as Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper.

He recorded two clean sheets in three matches during May, further strengthening his reputation as one of the club’s standout performers.

Overall, Okoye has now kept 10 clean sheets in 29 league appearances this season and has also been shortlisted for the Serie A Player of the Month award for May.

League One side Barnsley FC have confirmed that Nigerian midfielder Kelechi Nwakali will remain at the club beyond the 2025/26 campaign, following the release of their retained and released list, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports

The decision sees Nwakali continue at Oakwell despite an uncertain period in his recent career, with the club opting to activate his contract option as part of their squad planning for the new season.

The former FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Ball winner had endured a mixed spell in England after initially making 26 appearances in his debut season, before later slipping out of favour under previous management.

At different stages, the midfielder was linked with a possible departure after being considered surplus to requirements, but a permanent exit did not materialise.

He later spent time with the development squad to maintain fitness and gradually worked his way back toward first-team involvement, featuring briefly in the closing stages of the season.

Despite earlier disciplinary concerns and limited playing time, Barnsley have now decided to retain the Nigerian international as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.

Maduka Okoye has earned high praise from Kosta Runjaic, with the Udinese manager describing the Super Eagles shot-stopper as a mature and reliable presence in goal for the Serie A side, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Okoye initially struggled to settle after joining Udinese Calcio, spending much of his early spell on the bench before gradually working his way into the starting role.

Runjaic admitted the goalkeeper’s early challenges were expected but praised his response and development over time.

“Okoye’s evolution is clear for everyone to see. He plays an important role in our defensive structure and has made decisive saves at key moments to keep us in games,” Runjaic said.

The coach also highlighted the 24-year-old’s mentality and work ethic, crediting both the player and the club’s staff for his improvement.

“We know how his season started; it wasn’t easy without regular matches, but he worked hard on himself. Now he is performing with calmness, focus, and strong mental strength,” he added.

Runjaic further noted that Okoye’s integration has been supported by constant technical guidance within the squad, helping him regain confidence and consistency.

With his performances improving in the closing stages of the season, Okoye has re-established himself as Udinese’s first-choice goalkeeper and remains a key figure as they push to finish strongly in Serie A.

Serie A side Bologna FC 1909 are keeping close tabs on Nigerian forward 3421 as they look to reinforce their attacking department ahead of the summer transfer window, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Italian club is reportedly viewing the 23-year-old as an affordable attacking option compared to other targets on their shortlist, with his valuation believed to fall between €8 million and €10 million.

Orban is currently on loan at Hellas Verona from German side TSG 1899 Hoffenheim and is expected to return to his parent club at the end of the season.

Despite a difficult campaign in Italy, the Nigerian forward still managed to finish as Verona’s top scorer with seven league goals in 28 appearances.

His performances have reportedly kept him on the radar of several European clubs, with Bologna now emerging as one of the sides monitoring his situation closely ahead of the window.

Paul Onuachu has ended the 2025/26 Turkish Super Lig season as joint top scorer following an impressive campaign with Trabzonspor, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports

The Nigerian striker scored 22 league goals to share the golden boot with Eldor Shomurodov of ?stanbul Ba?ak?ehir.

Onuachu also became only the sixth player in Trabzonspor’s history to finish as the league’s top scorer, further cementing his place in the club’s recent success story.

The 30-year-old played a decisive role throughout the season, contributing 36 percent of Trabzonspor’s total league goals. The Black Sea club scored 61 goals in 34 matches, with Onuachu responsible for 22 of them.

His impact extended beyond individual statistics. Trabzonspor collected 43 points in the 18 league games in which the Super Eagles forward scored, recording 13 wins, four draws, and only one defeat in those matches.

The figures also revealed that the club secured 66 percent of their total league points in games where Onuachu found the net, underlining his importance to the team during the campaign.

The prolific striker’s performances are expected to further strengthen his standing within the Super Eagles setup ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Michael Kayode has confirmed he intends to continue his international career with Italy national football team despite remaining eligible to represent the Nigeria national football team.

The Brentford F.C. defender, who was born in Italy to Nigerian parents, stated that representing Italy remains his priority as he continues to pursue a senior national team breakthrough.

“I will always give priority to Italy: even at youth level, I grew up wearing the Azzurri shirt,” Kayode told Tuttosport.

“I hope to achieve this dream as soon as possible, but I have no doubt about which path to choose.”

The 21-year-old has progressed through Italy’s youth national teams and is regarded as one of the promising young defenders eligible for senior selection.

Kayode also revealed that he held discussions with former Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso ahead of the World Cup play-off matches in March, although he was ultimately not included in the squad.

“Yes, we also had dinner with other [Italian] Premier League players,” Kayode admitted.

“I was doing well, I felt involved even without being called up for the play-offs.”

Kayode’s comments represent a setback to hopes that Nigeria could persuade the versatile full-back to switch allegiance to the Super Eagles in the future.

Emmanuel Fernandez has apologised to Rangers F.C. supporters following the club’s disappointing 3-1 defeat to Celtic F.C. at Celtic Park on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The result effectively ended Rangers’ hopes of winning the Scottish Premiership title with two matches remaining in the season.

Speaking after the defeat, Fernandez admitted the team had failed to meet expectations in recent matches and expressed disappointment over their performances.

“First and foremost, I apologise to the fans. We know that we should have done better in the last three games. We feel sorry for the fans,” Fernandez told the Daily Record.

The defender also accepted personal responsibility for some of the side’s defensive issues, insisting he would focus on improving his own displays rather than criticising teammates.

“I couldn’t pinpoint an issue, but I just feel like maybe we needed to have a bit more fight. I can’t say we have been unlucky. I can take stick for it because there are certain moments I probably should have defended better,” he said.

“There is nothing I can say about my teammates. I will probably just look at myself, if anything.”

Despite the setback, Fernandez urged the squad to stay focused for the remaining matches of the campaign.

“But now we have to pick ourselves up. There are two games to go, and we have to win these two games for the fans. I feel like there are still a lot of strong players here, young players, who are going to be in their second season. They can show they are really worth it and are going to fight.

“When next season comes, we’ll have a good side,” he added.

David Okereke was on target as US Cremonese defeated Pisa SC 3-0 in their Serie A encounter on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The victory ended Cremonese’s five-game winless run and gave their survival hopes a major lift as they continue their fight against relegation.

Pisa were reduced to 10 men after Rosen Bozhinov was sent off in the 24th minute, leaving the hosts with a numerical advantage early in the game.

Jamie Vardy opened the scoring for Cremonese in the 31st minute before Federico Bonazzoli doubled the lead two minutes after the restart.

Okereke was introduced in the 72nd minute and made his impact felt late in the game, scoring Cremonese’s third goal four minutes from time.

The strike marked his second goal of the season, further boosting his confidence at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Umar Sadiq scored the decisive goal as Valencia CF defeated Athletic Bilbao 1-0 in their LaLiga encounter on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The important victory moved Carlos Corberán’s side five points clear of the relegation zone with only three matches remaining in the campaign.

Sadiq was introduced in the 70th minute as a replacement for Hugo Duro and made an immediate impact for Los Che.

The Nigerian international struck the winning goal just two minutes after coming on, continuing his impressive recent form in front of goal.

The 29-year-old has now scored three goals in his last four league appearances for Valencia.

The victory lifted Valencia to 12th position on the LaLiga table, significantly boosting their hopes of preserving their top-flight status.