By Our Correspondent
National News – Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika is expected to leave Belgian champions Club Brugge this summer, as top-flight Belgian coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck predicts the 24-year-old will be unable to stay beyond the current season.
Vanhaezebrouck, who has managed Genk and Gent, described Onyedika as “outstanding” and noted his strong performances across Europe, especially in the UEFA Champions League.
Club Brugge reportedly rejected multiple offers in the January transfer window, including a €15m loan-to-buy bid from Galatasaray, highlighting the midfielder’s rising market value.
Onyedika has drawn interest from several elite European clubs, including Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and Aston Villa.
The Nigerian international has impressed with 175 appearances for Club Brugge since joining in 2022, scoring nine goals and providing six assists.
His standout displays at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Nigeria finished third, have further boosted his reputation.
Belgian media suggest Club Brugge may seek a higher transfer fee this summer, preferably selling to clubs in England, Spain, Italy, or Germany, rather than Turkish sides.
Galatasaray remains keen, placing Onyedika on a shortlist alongside PSG’s Fabian Ruiz and Villarreal’s Pape Gueye, but financial terms have hindered any January deal.
The main question now is which top European club will meet Club Brugge’s valuation and secure the talented midfielder’s services.
Analysts suggest that Onyedika’s combination of Champions League experience, domestic league consistency, and international performance makes him one of Europe’s most sought-after Nigerian talents this season.
With negotiations expected to intensify in the coming months, Onyedika’s summer exit appears imminent, marking a major step forward in his career and offering European clubs a chance to sign a proven, dynamic midfielder.
