Super Eagles: How Trincao’s move to Al Ahli could benefit Samuel Chukwueze

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze could be handed a fresh opportunity to revive his career this summer, with a potential move to the Portuguese league, Afrik-Foot reports.

Chukwueze’s future at AC Milan has remained uncertain after the conclusion of his loan spell at Premier League side Fulham last season.

The Super Eagles star joined the Cottagers on a season-long loan but, despite showing flashes of his quality, Fulham opted against making the move permanent.

Having returned to AC Milan, Chukwueze has continued to attract interest from clubs across Europe, with Trabzonspor, Bologna and Fiorentina all linked with the 27-year-old. 

Ryan Alebiosu, Raphael Onyedika and Samuel Chukwueze for the Super Eagles. Photo by IMAGO

However, developments in Portugal could now present him with another possible route away from the San Siro.

Al Ahli close to signing Francisco Trincao

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli are closing in on a deal to sign Sporting CP winger Francisco Trincao this summer.

The Saudi club are keen to strengthen their attacking options ahead of next season, with Trincao identified as one of their priority targets and a deal could be completed before the end of the 2026 World Cup tournament.

The Portuguese international has been a key figure for Sporting since joining from Barcelona in 2023, playing an important role in the club’s recent success and his departure would leave a major void on the right side of Sporting’s attack.

Francisco Trincao. [Photo: Calcio FC/ X]

However, this could be a major boost to Chukwueze’s future.

How the move could benefit the Super Eagles winger

Should Trincao complete his move to Al Ahli, Sporting would almost certainly enter the transfer market in search of a replacement.

The Portuguese champions have also seen the departure of highly rated youngster Geovany Quenda to Premier League side Chelsea, further increasing the need for reinforcements in the wide attacking areas, where Chukwueze could emerge as an attractive option.

The Super Eagles forward has reportedly turned down a move to Turkey at this stage of his career, making a move to Portugal a more appealing prospect. 

Having previously enjoyed the best years of his career in La Liga with Villarreal, a switch to the Portuguese top flight could provide him with the ideal environment to rediscover his confidence and consistency.

The opportunity to compete in the UEFA Champions League would also be another major factor that could convince him to make a move, while Sporting’s reputation for developing attacking talent could make the move particularly attractive.

From Sporting’s perspective, Chukwueze possesses qualities that suit their style of play. His pace, direct dribbling ability and willingness to take defenders one-on-one would fit into Sporting’s playing style.

AC Milan stars Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria) and Rafael Leao (Portugal). Copyright: IMAGO/ActionPlus

In addition, his signature would be more affordable compared to other attacking options this summer, making him a very realistic option for the Portuguese club.

Although there has been no concrete interest from Sporting, Trincao’s potential departure could create the perfect opening for the club to consider a move for Chukwueze, potentially offering the Super Eagles star the fresh start he needs away from AC Milan.