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Cercle Brugge set to sign former Nigeria U17 winger Tunde Akinsola from AVS
Cercle Brugge are close to completing a deal for former Nigeria U17 winger Tunde Akinsola, who is expected to leave relegated Portuguese club AVS, according to OwnGoalNigeria.com.
The 23-year-old is reportedly set to move to the Belgian top flight after an agreement was reached over his departure from AVS. Akinsola had been seeking an exit from the Portuguese side, with his future at the club increasingly uncertain.
Akinsola joined AVS in 2024 on a free transfer from Real Valladolid, having previously spent a season on loan. He made 38 appearances in all competitions last season, contributing four assists and scoring twice.
His determination to leave was understood to have included the threat of activating a clause that would have allowed him to depart without a transfer fee because of unpaid wages. However, the latest reports indicate that an agreement has now been reached to resolve the situation and allow the winger to move on.
Cercle Brugge are expected to be his next destination. The Belgian club have emerged as the likely winners in the race for his signature, despite interest from Nantes, who were also reported to be tracking the player after their relegation from Ligue 1.
The move would give Akinsola the opportunity to continue his development after gaining experience in Portugal’s top division. He joined AVS after his period with Real Valladolid and has now attracted attention from clubs in Belgium and France.
Akinsola previously represented the Nigeria U17 team. A move to Cercle Brugge would provide him with a fresh start following AVS’s relegation and the dispute surrounding his unpaid wages.
Although the transfer is not yet officially confirmed, reports suggest that the deal is close and that Akinsola will join Cercle Brugge. The Belgian top-flight side are therefore poised to secure a player who recorded six direct goal contributions in 38 matches during his most recent campaign.
For Akinsola, the proposed switch represents a change of country and a new stage in his career. He will be aiming to build on the experience acquired during his time playing in the Portuguese top flight, while Cercle Brugge move towards completing the signing of the former Nigeria youth international.
