Barnsley boss Conor Hourihane has confirmed that Kelechi Nwakali will not feature in his plans for the new season.
Kelechi Nwakali, 26, who joined the Reds last August, has been frozen out of the squad since pre-season.
Asked about Nwakali’s future ahead of Barnsley’s clash with Peterborough United, Hourihane said, “Yeah, that’ll be the plan. We are looking to move him on.”
The former Arsenal man has endured a nomadic career since leaving the Gunners, with spells in Spain and Portugal. His exit from Oakwell now looks inevitable, though it remains unclear whether it will be a loan or a permanent move.
Getafe Open to Uche Sale
The head coach of Getafe, Jose Bordalas, has hinted that Nigerian midfielder Chrisantus Uche could be sold to raise funds. The 22-year-old has drawn interest from Premier League clubs including Wolves, Brentford, Leeds, and Sunderland.
Uche impressed last season in La Liga, contributing ten goal involvements, and kicked off the new campaign with a goal and assist in Getafe’s 2-0 win over Celta Vigo.
Bordalas admitted the club might have no choice but to sell: “We’ll have to release some so we can register all or almost all of them. I wouldn’t like Uche or anyone to leave, but we have to accept the offers we have.”
Lookman-Atalanta Saga Turns Sour
Ademola Lookman’s much-anticipated move to Inter has collapsed after Atalanta refused to sanction a transfer.
The Nigerian forward went on a two-week training strike, deleting Atalanta content from his social media and accusing the club of breaking promises.
Despite Inter offering €45 million and a five-year deal, Atalanta CEO Antonio Percassi stood firm. According to Italian reports, the club will now fine Lookman and dock wages for his absence.
However, coach Ivan Juric is wary of losing more attacking firepower after the sale of Mateo Retegui.
A reintegration plan is reportedly on the table, but disciplinary action is first in line.
Ndidi’s Positive Besiktas Debut
In Turkey, Wilfred Ndidi made a winning start to life at Besiktas, featuring in their 2-1 Super Lig win over Eyupspor. The midfielder praised the fans after a strong 70-minute display.
“The atmosphere was great. The support from our fans throughout the match was great,” Ndidi told the club’s website.
Besiktas dramatically sealed victory, with Rafa Silva netting in the 96th minute. Ndidi will next feature in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers against Lausanne.
Awoniyi Faces Forest Exit
At Nottingham Forest, Taiwo Awoniyi could be on his way out following the arrival of several new forwards, including Arnaud Kalimuendo from Rennes. The 23-year-old Frenchman’s €26m move has pushed Awoniyi further down Nuno Espírito Santo’s pecking order.
With Chris Wood and Igor Jesus ahead of him, Awoniyi is now effectively the fourth-choice striker. After scoring just one league goal last season, the Nigerian may be forced to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Napoli Eye Arokodare as Lukaku Replacement
Serie A champions Napoli are targeting Tolu Arokodare of Genk after Romelu Lukaku was sidelined with a long-term injury.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Napoli have already contacted the 24-year-old’s camp, with Genk valuing him at €20-25m. Arokodare finished last season as Belgium’s top scorer with 23 goals and seven assists.
Genk coach Thorsten Fink has already hinted at his exit, saying: “It’s money time for Tolu. The club simply has to sell.”
Sadiq Secures Valencia Loan
Meanwhile, Umar Sadiq is set for a return to Valencia after Real Sociedad agreed a season-long loan with a purchase option. The 28-year-old, who previously enjoyed a fruitful spell at Mestalla, agreed to take a 30% pay cut to make the deal happen.
Valencia will pay under €1m for the loan, with an option to sign him permanently for €9m. Despite interest from Fulham earlier in the window, Sadiq has opted for a familiar environment as he looks to reignite his career.
The post Nigerian Players Abroad: Barnsley To Kick Out Nwakali, Uche For Sale, Atalanta To Sanction Lookman, Others appeared first on Naija News.
