Nigeria Players Abroad
Galatasaray step up pursuit of Onyedika as Club Brugge hold out for formal bid
By Dayo Awoniyi
Turkish champions Galatasaray have renewed their interest in Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika, submitting a contract proposal to the player’s camp, though Club Brugge are yet to receive a formal transfer bid.
The Istanbul giants had previously attempted to sign the 23-year-old during the January transfer window, but talks collapsed after they failed to meet Brugge’s valuation.
Sources in Belgium now indicate that Galatasaray are preparing a fresh approach as they strengthen their squad ahead of a testing UEFA Champions League campaign.
Onyedika, who has also been monitored by Premier League side West Ham United, is said to be open to a new challenge as he looks to accelerate his career progression.
Since joining Brugge from Danish outfit FC Midtjylland in 2022 for around €9 million, the Nigerian international has established himself as a key figure in midfield, earning praise for his ball-winning ability and composure under pressure.
Brugge, however, remain in a strong bargaining position. The Belgian side are expected to demand a significant profit on their investment, having already moved to strengthen their midfield options with the arrivals of Ludovit Reis from Hamburg and Aleksandar Stankovic from Red Star Belgrade.
For Onyedika, who has featured for the Super Eagles in recent AFCON qualifiers, a switch to Galatasaray would not only provide the platform to compete at Europe’s highest level but also continue Nigeria’s strong legacy in Turkish football.
