Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika is reportedly close to a move to Turkish champions Galatasaray this month, where he could link up with compatriot Victor Osimhen, SportPremi reports.
The Lions have been long admirers of the Club Brugge midfielder and agreed personal terms last summer although the move did not materialize over differences in valuation between both clubs.
They also previously tried to sign the defensive midfielder in 2024, but the move also stalled after an agreement was not reached between the two clubs.
The Belgian club have reportedly agreed a fee of €23 million, which is €2 million below their initial valuation with the move set to be completed when the 24-year-old returns from international duty in Morocco, where he is currently with the Nigerian national team at the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament.
It is expected that Onyedika would sign a four-year deal at the RAMS Park and will receive a payment upgrade, with a potential €1 million yearly earnings.
Why Onyedika suits Galatasaray’s pattern of play
Onyedika has become one of the most influential players for Club Brugge since his move in 2022 and has made several appearances for the club, both in the league and also in the UEFA Champions League.
Adapting to life in Turkey should not be an issue for him, with Victor Osimhen already at Galatasaray and the presence of several other Super Eagles stars spread across the league helping him settle in quickly.
The 24-year-old is a tireless worker in midfield and has incredible work rate, while his late runs into the box could also benefit the team especially in situations when they are in need of a goal.
The midfielder displayed this characteristic during Nigeria’s 3-1 win over Uganda at the AFCON tournament, where he netted two second half goals to seal a dominant victory.
The Super Eagles star would greatly help the team as they continue their title defence and also mount a challenge in the UEFA Champions League this season.
