Transfers

QPR, Al-Ettifaq join Nwabali race

Following his impressive performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, stock continues to rise with two clubs recently expressing interests in signing the shot stopper, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

According to reports, EFL Championship side Queens Park Rangers and Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq are both eyeing a swoop for the 27-year-old goalkeeper.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Sunday wrote on his X handle that the Nigerian was a major target for clubs but added that both QPR and Al-Ettifaq are keen on securing Nwabali’s services, with Chippa United open to considering offers during the upcoming summer transfer window.

“Nigeria GK Stanley Nwabali, on the list of different clubs as Al Ettifaq in Saudi and Queens Park Rangers in UK have enquired about him,” he wrote.

“His South African club Chippa United will consider his future move in the next months.”

Though he started his career in the Nigeria Premier League playing for Go Round FC, Enyimba, Lobi Stars and Katsina United before signing for the South African side in 2022 but Nwabali gained much attention when Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro decided to invite him to the Eagles squad few weeks before the start of the AFCON.

Nwabali repaid Peseiro’s faith in him by producing a sterling performance at the tournament, keeping four clean sheets in seven matches during the AFCON tournament.

The Chippa United shot-stopper also became fans favourite after his heroic penalty saves helped Nigeria beat South Africa 4-2 on penalties in the semi-finals with Nwabali walking away with the man of the match award.

Upon his return to South Africa last Tuesday, Nwabali was greeted by hundreds of Chippa United fans who came out to welcome him on his arrival at Port Elizabeth Airport.

Having enjoyed overwhelming support from the club, Nwabali said he wished to repay the club by staying for at least another two years, albeit saying it’s unlikely.

It is however looking likely that the Nigerian may ply his trade elsewhere next season.

While QPR and Al-Ettifaq are the latest clubs to be linked with the goalkeeper, Nwabali has also attracted interest from various clubs, including Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, the former club of Victor Boniface, who are eager to strengthen their squad.

Despite the transfer rumors circulating online, Nwabali remains focused on his current club, Chippa United, as he awaits concrete offers.

“I only see offers online. I have never seen any offer on my table,” Nwabali added.

In the midst of his newfound fame, Nwabali insists now is the time for him to double his efforts.

“I am still Stanley. I want to work harder than before now. If I was putting in 100 per cent before, now I have to double that because a lot of people are looking up to me now,” he stated.

Related Topics:Chippa United Featured Nwabali QPR

Click to comment

Transfers

Disasi agrees personal terms with Aston Villa

Chelsea defender Axel Disasi is reportedly on the verge of joining Aston Villa after agreeing to personal terms ahead of a potential January transfer.

The Frenchman has struggled for regular game time at Stamford Bridge this season and is now set to make the move to Unai Emery’s side, who are looking to replace Diego Carlos following his recent departure.

According to Fabrizio Romano, via Football Transfer, Carlos joined Fenerbahce for €10 million, prompting Villa to identify Disasi as their ideal replacement. Romano shared on X:

“Axel Disasi has agreed on personal terms with Aston Villa.

“Disasi wants to join Villa despite interest from more clubs around Europe after direct talk with Unai Emery, crucial to get the green light.

“Deal now up to Chelsea and Villa to reach full agreement.”

Chelsea signed Disasi from AS Monaco for €45 million in 2023, but his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) has dropped significantly to €20.9 million due to limited playing opportunities this season. The 25-year-old has only featured in six Premier League matches during the 2024-25 campaign and has been left out of Chelsea’s matchday squad eight times since Enzo Maresca’s arrival last summer.

Transfers

EPL: Nottingham Forest desperate to sell out-of-favor Emmanuel Dennis

Nottingham Forest are facing difficulties in offloading striker Emmanuel Dennis before the transfer window closes.

The Nigerian forward has been out of favor under manager Nuno Espirito Santo and has not made a single appearance this season. Dennis’ last game for Forest was against Crystal Palace in May 2023.

The 27-year-old, who has 18 months remaining on his contract, is proving challenging to sell due to his high wages. Dennis currently earns £4 million annually, making him a costly option for potential suitors.

Discussions are ongoing with Watford, but his former club cannot meet his salary demands. Sheffield Wednesday have also expressed interest, but reports indicate their offer falls short of Forest’s expectations.

Transfers

Belgian club, KAS Eupen secure Nigerian striker Ejike on loan

Belgian club KAS Eupen has secured Nigerian striker Philip Ejike on a loan deal from Bulgarian side PFK Montana.

The agreement includes an option for the Pandas to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season.

Ejike impressed during his stint at PFK Montana, tallying 11 goals and two assists in 21 appearances.

The talented forward is set to join his new teammates in training immediately and could make his debut as early as Tuesday when KAS Eupen takes on SC Lokeren-Temse.

Mersad Selimbegovic’s team currently sits 13th in the league standings.