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Sevilla transfer update puts Chidera Ejuke’s La Liga opener in doubt
Sevilla winger Chidera Ejuke is unlikely to feature in Saturday’s La Liga opener against Rayo Vallecano after missing important parts of the club’s pre-season, sporting director Jose Ignacio Navarro has indicated.
The Super Eagles player has been at the centre of transfer speculation this summer, with Sevilla prepared to sell him as they look to raise funds before the final year of his contract.
Ejuke has continued to train with the squad during preparations for the new campaign, although his involvement has not been complete. He was not included in the groups that travelled to the Netherlands and Germany for Sevilla’s pre-season training camps.
His absence from those trips led to suggestions that Sevilla were beginning to exclude him from first-team plans because of his expected departure. It also raised doubts over whether he would be involved when Sevilla begin their La Liga campaign against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
However, Navarro has sought to clarify the situation and indicated that Ejuke’s limited preparation, rather than a breakdown in relations, is the main reason his involvement is uncertain.
The winger could still be included in the matchday squad, but his lack of consistent pre-season football means he is unlikely to play a significant role. A place on the bench remains possible, although seeing Ejuke take to the pitch against Rayo Vallecano would be unexpected.
Despite the transfer uncertainty, Ejuke and Sevilla remain on good terms. The club’s priority, however, is to reach an agreement over his sale this summer. If they fail to do so, Sevilla risk losing the player for nothing when his contract expires next year.
Navarro’s comments also suggest that Ejuke has attracted interest from several clubs during the current transfer window. No deal has yet been completed, and the Nigeria international has not decided on his next destination.
Saudi Arabian clubs have entered the competition for his signature. Even so, Ejuke is expected to favour remaining in Europe because of his age, unless a financially exceptional offer changes his plans.
The timing of the situation is becoming increasingly important. Transfer windows in Europe’s leading leagues are due to close within the next three weeks, leaving Sevilla with a narrowing opportunity to secure a fee for the winger.
Until his future is resolved, Ejuke’s position at the club is likely to remain under scrutiny. For now, his limited involvement in pre-season has made him a serious doubt for Sevilla’s first league match, while interest from several potential buyers could determine whether he stays in Spain or moves elsewhere before the window shuts.
