Ekong knee issue scuppers summer move as Malmo confirm surgery plan

Malmo FF have confirmed that Emmanuel Ekong’s planned summer transfer collapsed after a medical with an unnamed foreign club flagged a pre-existing knee problem, leading the Swedish side to now schedule surgery for the forward.

Reports in recent days indicated that Hajduk Split had reached an agreement to sign the Nigeria-eligible attacker, only for the switch to break down when he did not pass his medical checks. While Malmo did not name the club involved, they stated on their official website that the buying side pulled out once concerns were raised over an earlier injury.

The Allsvenskan club disclosed that Ekong sustained a meniscus injury to his right knee in March. After examinations and talks with the player at the time, Malmo decided against an operation, believing a rehabilitation programme offered the most suitable treatment.

According to the club, the 24-year-old completed that rehab and had been fully available for both training sessions and competitive fixtures from the start of May. During that period, he was considered fit for selection across all competitions.

However, during the routine medical assessment carried out by the interested foreign club this summer, the previous knee issue was highlighted and subsequently became the decisive factor in their refusal to proceed with the deal.

Malmo statement on failed move

In a squad update on their website, Malmo outlined precisely how the transfer fell apart and why their stance on treatment has now changed.

Referring to Emmanuel Ekong, the club wrote: “In connection with a medical examination by a foreign club, this already known injury was noted and the club therefore refused a transfer.

“In light of these new circumstances, we have decided, in consultation with Emmanuel, to plan for knee surgery.”

Malmo did not provide a timetable for the operation or any projected recovery period, and there was no indication of when Ekong might be expected to return to action following surgery.

Limited game time since January move

Emmanuel, the son of former Nigeria international Prince Ikpe Ekong, joined Malmo in January 2025. Since his arrival, he has found regular minutes hard to come by and has started only eighteen matches in all competitions for the Swedish club.

The failed move means Ekong will remain with Malmo while he undergoes the planned knee surgery and subsequent rehabilitation, with his long-term future to be reassessed once he has recovered.

No further details were given on the financial terms of the proposed transfer or whether Hajduk Split, or any other foreign club, might revisit their interest after the player completes his treatment.