Raphael Onyedika: Sweden kidwonder key to Frankfurt’s move for Nigeria and Club Brugge star

Nigeria and Club Brugge star Raphael Onyedika. Copyright: IMAGOxJanxDexMeuleneirx

Despite interest from Frankfurt, Raphael Onyedika is not close to leaving Club Brugge during the January transfer window if reports from Belgium are anything to go by, Soccernet.ng understands.

Transfer negotiations between Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt and Belgian giants Club Brugge for Nigerian midfielder Onyedika have reached a complex impasse, with both clubs locked in a strategic standoff.

Reports from Voetbalnieuws.be indicate Frankfurt’s pursuit of Onyedika stretches back to last summer, but the deal remains entangled in timing and valuation issues.

Nigeria and Club Brugge star Raphael Onyedika. Copyright: xTomasxSiskxIMAGO
Club Brugge have set the bar high, demanding over €20 million for the 24-year-old defensive midfielder, a fee Frankfurt are reluctant to meet unless their current midfield anchor Hugo Larsson departs. Sweden international Larsson, 21, has been on the payroll at Frankfurt since 2023, having joined from Malmö FF for a club record fee.

Frankfurt internally view Onyedika as Larsson’s natural successor, but not as an immediate signing. That contradiction has frozen progress.

Nigeria Super Eagles and Club Brugge star Raphael Onyedika. Photo by IMAGO
While Frankfurt coach Dino Toppmöller is keen to strengthen his midfield options, especially with a robust ‘number six’ who can win duels and initiate transitions, club executives remain cautious about committing major funds before knowing Larsson’s future.

The result, insiders say, is a ‘hot and cold’ negotiation: one that heats up when Frankfurt’s midfield struggles are exposed, but cools down when Larsson reaffirms his commitment to stay.

Meanwhile, other suitors from Turkey and Germany continue to circle, waiting for the right moment to move for Onyedika.

Nigeria and Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika. Photo by IMAGO
Club Brugge’s firm stance on Onyedika reflects their huge faith in his abilities.

Despite missing several weeks of action through a hamstring injury, the Super Eagles star remains integral to their plans. His range of interceptions, recoveries, and composure in tight spaces make him one of the Pro League’s most valuable assets.

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Raphael Onyedika: Return from onjury bolsters Brugge and Nigeria
Onyedika’s transfer uncertainty coincides with good news on the fitness front.

The Super Eagles midfielder has returned to full training after a 37-day layoff caused by a hamstring injury sustained during Club Brugge’s 5–5 draw with Westerlo in September.

Nigeria Super Eagles and Club Brugge star Raphael Onyedika. Photo by IMAGO
His recovery comes at a crucial time for both club and country. Club Brugge have named him in the squad for Saturday’s Belgian Pro League match against FCV Dender EH as they chase leaders Union St. Gilloise. His return strengthens a side looking to extend their six-game unbeaten run.

Nigeria Super Eagles star Raphael Onyedika vs Russia. Photo Credit: NFF Comms
For Nigeria, the timing couldn’t be better. Head coach Eric Chelle is preparing for the CAF World Cup playoffs clash against Gabon on November 13, with Onyedika’s availability providing much-needed balance in midfield.

Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualification campaign remains on course, and the midfielder’s presence could prove vital in the decisive stages.