Nigeria Players Abroad
Etiosa Ighodaro weighs transfer options amid strong interest from Kaizer Chiefs
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
South African giants Kaizer Chiefs have intensified their pursuit of Nigerian striker Etiosa Ighodaro, as the 23-year-old carefully considers his next move amid growing uncertainty surrounding his future at Mamelodi Sundowns.
Ighodaro appears likely to depart Sundowns this summer, with the club reportedly resigned to losing him following internal administrative changes.
Having secured a Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) in South Africa, Ighodaro no longer occupies a foreign player slot — once a key factor in transfer decisions. However, Sundowns have yet to offer a contract renewal, and the striker’s departure seems increasingly probable.
The former Nigerian youth international has completed three consecutive loan spells, most recently at AmaZulu, where he scored six goals in 27 appearances during the 2023/24 season. He previously featured for Chippa United and the University of Pretoria, building a reputation as a mobile and clinical forward.
Recent reports claimed that Ighodaro had already signed with Kaizer Chiefs, but a source speaking to Soccer Laduma dismissed those claims as inaccurate.
According to the insider, while Chiefs have expressed concrete interest, no agreement has been reached. Ighodaro is said to be evaluating multiple offers both within South Africa and abroad.
With his current deal set to expire at the end of the month, a final decision on his future is expected soon.
