Debt over relegation? Why Boavista may sacrifice Nigeria’s Onyemaechi to Olympiacos or Trabzonspor

New details have emerged shedding light on why Boavista are willing to part ways with Super Eagles defender Bruno Onyemaechi, despite his significance to the team, Soccernet.ng reports.

In a challenging season for the Portuguese side, Onyemaechi has been a standout performer, offering versatility and consistency in multiple roles. The Nigerian has been deployed as a left-back, wing-back, center-back, and even as a left winger, excelling in each position.

Nigeria and Boavista star Bruno OnyemaechiNigeria and Boavista star Bruno Onyemaechi
Bruno Onyemaechi during Liga Portugal game between teams Casa Pia AC and Boavista FC Photo by IMAGO

This campaign, Onyemaechi is enjoying his most productive attacking season, recording three league goals and an assist in 18 matches— a career-high. In December, fans voted him Boavista’s Player of the Month, acknowledging his commitment and brilliance.

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Yet, despite his contributions, Boavista find themselves in a dire situation. With only 12 points from 18 games, they sit at the bottom of the Primeira Liga table, desperately fighting to avoid relegation.

Onyemaechi Bruno of Nigeria during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifier match between Nigeria and Benin Republic. Photo by IMAGO

One might assume the club would prioritise retaining key players like Onyemaechi and strengthening the squad during the January transfer window.

However, reports suggest Boavista are open to offers for the Nigerian defender, with Olympiacos and Trabzonspor reportedly leading the race for his signature.

According to A Bola, the primary reason behind this surprising decision is financial.

Boavista are reportedly looking to offload Onyemaechi to raise funds to service a debt. The proceeds from his sale would be used to pay BTL, the financial company managing credits for Somague, the construction firm responsible for building Boavista’s Estádio do Bessa.

Estadio Cidade de Barcelos Bruno OnyemaechiR and Jonathan MutomboL seen disputing the ball during the Liga Portugal Betclic 2024/25 match between Gil Vicente FC and Boavista FC at Estadio Cidade de Barcelos on November 2, 2024 in Barcelos, Portugal. Photo by IMAGO

The club has received a €2.5 million offer from Greek giants Olympiacos, which matches Trabzonspor’s bid. The 25-year-old Onyemaechi is reportedly keen on joining Olympiacos, the reigning UEFA Conference League champions.

Boavista stand to make a solid profit on the defender, having signed him for just €1 million from Feirense in 2023.

However, selling Onyemaechi could come at a steep cost on the pitch, potentially weakening the team’s already fragile hopes of survival in the Portuguese top flight.

This post was last modified on January 22, 2025 2:37 pm

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele

Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad. From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.

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