One to leave, three can stay: Antwerp make transfer decision on Nigeria’s Yusuf, Ejuke, Udoh, Ilenikhena

Belgian giants Royal Antwerp have made transfer decisions that could affect their four Nigerian imports, Soccernet.ng reports.

Alhassan Yusuf, Chidera Ejuke, Victor Udoh, and Lagos-born George Ilenikhena were at the core of Royal Antwerp’s league and continental outings during the 2023-24 campaign.

However, ahead of the 2024-25 season, Antwerp have decided to sanction the departure of Ejuke while holding on to the trip of Yusuf, Udoh, and Ilenikhena, according to Voetbal Primeur.

Ejuke joined Antwerp last July on a loan transfer from Russian side CSKA Moscow.

After initially struggling in Belgium, Ejuke forced his way into Antwerp’s first-team picture and ended with five goals and six assists in 39 appearances across all competitions.

The Zaria-born star will now have to look for another employer as his contract with CSKA also expires this summer.

Yusuf, who helped Antwerp lift the Belgian league title last year for the first time since 1957, is on the retain list for the Reds. The Super Eagles midfielder joined Antwerp from IFK Göteborg in 2021 and has a deal with the Great Old until the summer of 2025.

19-year-old Udoh started the campaign in Antwerp’s reserve team but he was promoted following a string of outstanding displays.

The former HB Abuja starlet only arrived in Belgium this January but he has already notched 12 goals in 21 games in the 1ste Nationale.

Ilenikhena is one of Royal Antwerp’s most valuable players after enjoying an excellent debut season at the club.

Signed from France’s Amiens last July for €6 million, Ilenikhena let the goals fly in Belgium scoring 14 times, including a late winner against Barcelona that handed Antwerp their first-ever win in the UEFA Champions League.

Antwerp are not bothered by his contract which does not expire until June 2027 and will only sanction a transfer for the 17-year-old should an irresistible offer arrive.