The January transfer window officially opens on Tuesday and there are expectations that some Nigerian players must move to bigger clubs in the winter window.
But which Nigerian players should wary of the decisions they make in January until the summer at least. Izuchukwu Okosi examines this.
1. Wilfred Ndidi
Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has been a great signing but his time at the club may come to an end in the year 2019 due to his performances.
Reports in England has linked the Super Eagles star to clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal, and could yet draw the attention of Manchester City who apparently want a worthy substitute for imperious but ageing Brazilian, Fernandinho.
However it will be best if Ndidi bide his time and not seek a move in the winter just yet as his game time could be affected. The Nigerian should aim to move to a club who want to sign him as their main defensive midfielder not one to play as second fiddle.
2. Victor Moses
How Victor Moses would wish Chelsea qualified for the Champions League and not settle for the Europa League which cost former manager Antonio Conte his job at Stamford Bridge and ultimately Moses his place in the team. New coach Maurizio Sarri does not play the wingback roles where Moses fitted in under Conte.
3. Samuel Chukwueze
There are already mooted expectations that Super Eagles newbie Samuel Chukwueze will be object of interests by some big clubs in Europe.
The Villarreal youngster has been quite a revelation for the Yellow Submarine this season but his best option will be to extend his stay at the Spanish side and develop even more.
It will not be in his best interest to have his head turned and sign elsewhere in January. He needs the momentum, the education and game time at a club that already trust him despite his young age.
4. Francis Uzoho
Newly married Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho at 20 is Nigeria’s first choice goalkeeper. That says it all!
The former youth international may feel the need to go to a club that befits his stature with Nigeria but it will be a mistake to leave this transfer window to a bigger club than Elche who play in the second tier of Spanish club football.
It will not be wrong to aim higher but Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup group stage exit meant his abilities were not sufficiently scouted.
