AFCON 2025
The recently concluded summer transfer window proved to be a mixed bag for Nigerian footballers across Europe.
While some sealed high-profile moves, others were left frustrated as promising deals collapsed at the final hurdle.
From failed medicals to clubs refusing to sanction sales, at least three Nigerian stars saw their dream switches fall through, forcing them to remain with their current teams despite strong interest elsewhere.
1. Victor Boniface – Leverkusen to Milan & Al Nassr Attempts Falter
Victor Boniface, the 24-year-old Nigerian striker from Bayer Leverkusen, encountered a rollercoaster of transfer drama this summer. Initially, a high-profile move to AC Milan appeared to be on the cards—only for it to collapse reportedly due to medical concerns.
Numerous sources confirm that transfer talks with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia also fell through earlier, even though personal terms and a deal with Leverkusen had been agreed upon.
Despite these setbacks, Boniface ultimately secured a loan move to Werder Bremen, passing his medical and completing the deal just in time ahead of the transfer deadline. Still, the failed links with Milan and earlier with Al Nassr, served as stark reminders of how quickly high-profile moves can unravel.
2. Ademola Lookman – From Inter Hopeful to Stuck at Atalanta
Ademola Lookman’s summer was marred by tension and unfulfilled expectations. After submitting an official transfer request following reported interest from Inter Milan, Lookman was left in limbo when the deal ultimately fell through, with Atalanta preferring not to sell to a domestic rival.
Reports indicate that Lookman even boycotted training in protest, frustrated by what he perceived as a broken agreement. As of now, he remains an Atalanta player, his future unresolved and with other potential suitors like Bayern Munich also rebuffed.
3. Kelechi Iheanacho
Kelechi Iheanacho endured a frustrating summer as attempts to seal a move away from Sevilla fell through. The Super Eagles striker, who joined on a free from Leicester City, struggled to impress—scoring none in La Liga before a poor loan spell at Middlesbrough.
Sevilla’s sporting director admitted the club made a “mistake” signing him, but high wages and lack of form have scared off suitors. Despite reported interest from England and Turkey, no deal materialized, leaving Iheanacho stuck in Spain with an uncertain future.
