Super Eagles: Why Al Ittihad could beat Frankfurt to Onyedika’s signature

Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika continues to face uncertainty over his future, with Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad and Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt both interested in signing him this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 25-year-old has been strongly linked with a move away from Club Brugge, with growing speculation that he could leave the Belgian champions before the end of the transfer window.

Onyedika’s current contract runs until 2027, meaning he has less than a year remaining on his deal. Club Brugge are therefore reluctant to risk losing him for free and are prepared to sanction a transfer this summer.

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

The Super Eagles midfielder was also close to leaving the club during the winter transfer window, with Turkish champions Galatasaray heavily linked with a move. However, the transfer never materialized.

Reports have now revealed that Al Ittihad have entered the race for his signature, while Eintracht Frankfurt have maintained their long-standing interest in the midfielder.

Onyedika: Why Al Ittihad could win the race to sign Super Eagles midfielder

Both Al Ittihad and Eintracht Frankfurt would represent attractive destinations if Onyedika leaves Club Brugge this summer.

A move to the Bundesliga could arguably be the better sporting option at this stage of his career, offering him the chance to continue playing at the highest level in one of Europe’s top leagues.

Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika. (Photo by Imago)

However, Al Ittihad could still come out on top in the race for his signature ahead of Frankfurt due to one major reason.

The Saudi club have the financial power to outbid most European rivals and are well known for offering highly lucrative contracts to top players.

They are also capable of matching Club Brugge’s asking price without difficulty and can offer Onyedika significantly higher wages than Frankfurt are likely to propose. That financial advantage could prove decisive and give Al Ittihad the edge in negotiations.

Ultimately, the final outcome will depend on which club is willing to satisfy Club Brugge’s demands and reach an agreement with the Belgian side.

Raphael Onyedika for Club Brugge. Photo by IMAGO

Once the club’s valuation is met, Onyedika is expected to begin the next chapter of his career, with either Al Ittihad or Eintracht Frankfurt currently appearing to be his most likely destination.

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Ayomide Oguntimehin

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Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.