The next thing clubs be wondering is how on earth are they going to strengthen their squads, given the shortfalls of revenue that not actually playing any games brings. But, amid all the chaos, there is a solution – and it comes in the form of bargain hunting.
With savings to be made, it’s probably a good idea to see who’ll be knocking around looking for pastures new. To save you doing the research, Futbalgalore.com.ng has cobbled together 7 Nigerian players who tick all the necessary free agent boxes…
7. Daniel Akpeyi
Super Eagles keeper Daniel Akpeyi has already bid fairwell to Kaizer Chiefs and is now a free agent.
Akpeyi kept clean sheets in 40% of the games that he played for Chiefs since joining from Chippa United, earning the trust of Ernst Middendorp, Gavin Hunt and Stuart Baxter.
Off the pitch, the 35-year-old built a reputation at Chiefs for easily being the best-dressed baller in Soweto. He did this by consistently delivering the freshest outfits in his wardrobe. His stylish choices are distinct from others as he has a unique dedication to mature and classy looks.
The goalkeeper shouldn’t be short of offers from South Africa and the Gulf Region.
6. Fanendo Adi
A throwback to a better time at Portland Timbers, Adi has been a free agent since he left Minnesota United in USA following a tough campaign last season.
USA clubs will both know there’s a prolific scorer in there somewhere.
5. Shehu Abdullahi
Versatility is the name of the game when talking about 28-year-old Shehu Abdullahi. Formerly of Academica, he’s now a free agent after leaving Omonia Nicosia this summer.
There is no doubting that he could do a job in the Championship….or maybe Ligue 1…..or maybe in Turkey? You get the idea, he’ll be good somewhere!
4. Leon Balogun
If you’re after a centre-back with power, Balogun is your man. A Scottish Premiership winner at Rangers, he’s an experienced campaigner with a lot left in his tank.
Good in the air and an attacking threat from set-pieces, he should attract suitors from Germany, England and Turkey.
3. Kelechi Nwakali
In 2015, one of the most exciting prospects to play for Nigeria was Nwakali. Since then, he struggled to find his form.
After recently leaving Huesca, he’s available on a free aged just 24. Potential suitors are in Turkey and Switzerland, but who knows what kind of a job he could do – potentially in the top flight.
2. Brown Ideye
Few Nigerian strikers have been as relentless at sticking the ball in the back of the net over the last decade as Ideye.
Yes, there are no signs he’s slowing down at 33.
1. Anthony Nwakaeme
The embodiment of class and of elegance. Nwakaeme’s wonderful years at Trabzonspor were exactly that, but as the club prepares to wave him a final farewell, he will need to find a new home.
Gulf clubs apparently want him, but surely a move to Fenerbahce or Galatasaray would suit all parties. Everyone would live happily ever after – unless MLS come calling, of course.
