Official: La Liga giants Villarreal sign Nigerian defender Ekerette Udom from Rivers United for B team

La Liga giants Villarreal have added a new defensive asset to their squad after confirming the signing of 21-year-old Nigerian centre-back Ekerette Udom for their reserve team, Soccernet.ng reports.

The young defender, known for his towering height and strength in aerial duels, arrives from Rivers United, a club in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

Villarreal made the announcement on their official website, stating:

“Villarreal CF have reached an agreement with Rivers United for the transfer of young defender Ekerette Udom, who joins Villarreal B’s ranks.”

Standing at 1.98 metres tall, Udom brings both physicality and versatility to Villarreal B, as he is capable of playing as a centre-back and a holding midfielder.

His solid performances in the NPFL, particularly for Rivers United, have caught the attention of European scouts, leading to this exciting move to Spain.

Udom will initially join Villarreal’s B team, which competes in the Primera Federación – Group 2.

The platform will allow him to hone his skills while aiming for promotion to the senior squad. Villarreal B, founded in 1999, plays its home matches at the Estadio de la Cerámica, a 23,008-seat stadium in Valencia.

This transfer marks a significant milestone in Udom's career, as he embarks on his European journey with a three-year contract.

His experience in the CAF Confederation Cup, as well as stints with various Nigerian clubs like Nasarawa United and Sunshine Stars, have prepared him for this next chapter.

Now with the opportunity to develop further in one of Europe’s top football environments, Udom will be eager to make an impact at Villarreal B and work his way into the first team.