Sparta Prague have made a major statement in the transfer market by signing 21-year-old Nigerian defender Emmanuel Uchenna from Baník Ostrava in a record-breaking deal, Soccernet.ng reports.
The move marks the Czech giants’ first reinforcement of the winter transfer window, with Uchenna committing to a multi-year contract.
Uchenna, a product of Nigeria's Ikorodu City FC, joined Baník Ostrava after initial loan spells at Vítkovice and Hlučín.
He broke into Baník’s first team this season, featuring in 14 matches and scoring once in the Czech top flight. His performances caught the attention of several clubs, but Sparta Prague acted swiftly to secure the promising defender.
Sparta’s sports director and former Arsenal star, Tomáš Rosický, was full of praise for Uchenna as per Ceska:
“I am very happy to welcome Emmanuel to Sparta. There was a lot of interest in his services, but he chose us because he sees the best space for his further development in our environment.
“He is a young, talented player with excellent prospects for further growth. He has the attributes that we look for in players for the defender position.”
The transfer fee remains undisclosed, but Baník Ostrava executive director Michal Bělák confirmed it involved a record-breaking exit clause, plus additional bonuses and a sell-on percentage.
“Sparta was one of the interested parties willing to meet the conditions set by the exit clause. It guaranteed that Emmanuel Uchenna's transfer would become a record for our club,” Bělák said.
Uchenna expressed delight at joining Sparta Prague, citing their playing style and ambitions.
“Going to Sparta is the best possible decision. I had a lot of offers, but as soon as my agent mentioned Sparta, I didn’t hesitate. Their style of play suits me perfectly,” he said.
The Nigerian defender will join fellow countryman Victor Olatunji at the club, which currently sits third in the league.
Uchenna will also have a chance to feature in Sparta’s Champions League campaign, with high-stakes matches against Inter Milan and Bayer Leverkusen on the horizon.
