Report: Leverkusen’s Nathan Tella set to earn maiden call-up for Super Eagles

Former Southampton forward Nathan Tella earlier expressed his desire to don the colours of his parent's country

Bayer Leverkusen forward, Nathan Tella, is reportedly set to receive his debut call-up to represent the Super Eagles in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Eagles, three-time Africa Cup of Nations champions, will face Lesotho and Zimbabwe in the coming week, but injuries to key players may pose a selection challenge for head coach Jose Peseiro.

A yet-to-be-confirmed report from Nigerian media outlets suggests that Tella is set to be a direct replacement for AC Milan forward Samuel Chukwueze.

Tella, a talented footballer born to Nigerian parents in England, has expressed his strong desire to represent the Super Eagles on the international stage.

“I’ve always said for the last three or four years that Nigeria is a big part of my life – even though I’ve been an ‘England boy' from London all my life. If I got the chance to play for Nigeria, I would be more than happy and accept it. I’ve already told my parents and friends that I would do that,” he mentioned, as quoted by Bild.

Reports suggest that discussions have been ongoing behind the scenes, and Super Eagles head coach is expected to include the 25-year-old winger in his squad for the upcoming matches.

The winger, who made his move to Bayer Leverkusen in the summer, gained attention for his impact during Burnley's return to the English Premier League while on loan from Southampton.

Tella's addition to the national team is anticipated to provide depth and excitement to the Super Eagles' lineup as they prepare to face Lesotho and Zimbabwe.