Super Eagles winger Samuel Kalu has addressed the growing speculation surrounding his future at Botev Plovdiv as interest in his signature continues to build ahead of the summer transfer window, Soccernet.ng reports.
Kalu has emerged as a target for several clubs following an impressive campaign with the Bulgarian side, with his performances putting him firmly back on the transfer radar after reviving his career.
The 28-year-old joined Botev Plovdiv in 2025 in a bid to get his career back on track after a difficult spell in Europe. He went on to make 26 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring three goals and providing three assists.
His performances have attracted interest from several clubs looking to strengthen their squads with an experienced winger. As a result, questions have continued to grow over whether he will remain at Botev Plovdiv or seek a fresh challenge before the start of next season.
However, the Super Eagles winger’s future has become even more uncertain after entering the final year of his contract on July 1. Unless a new deal is agreed, Kalu will be free to leave the club as a free agent when his contract expires next summer.
Samuel Kalu: Super Eagles forward addresses transfer speculation
Since arriving at Botev Plovdiv, Kalu has rediscovered the form that once made him one of Nigeria's most exciting attacking talents and a regular for the Super Eagles.
The uncertainty surrounding his contract has also fuelled speculation over a possible departure this summer, with clubs in both Bulgaria and Switzerland reportedly monitoring his situation.
Speaking to Footy-Africa, a source close to the Nigerian confirmed that while there is genuine interest and offers on the table, Kalu remains fully focused on Botev Plovdiv for now, with the club ultimately set to decide his future.
“Yes, the player has offers, but he is still under contract with Botev at the moment. I can tell you there is interest from clubs in Switzerland, where he has played before”, the source revealed.
“I can also confirm that Levski Sofia, one of the biggest clubs in Bulgaria, are interested in Kalu because they believe he can add quality and experience to their squad.
“A move to Levski would certainly surprise many people in Bulgaria because they are direct rivals of Botev Plovdiv. It will be interesting to see whether Botev would be willing to strengthen one of their biggest rivals.
“Kalu has one year remaining on his contract, so Botev have a decision to make. Do they sell him now and receive a transfer fee, or allow his contract to run down and risk losing him on a free transfer next summer?
“It is a difficult situation for both the player and the club. Personally, I think Botev would prefer to sell him abroad rather than to another Bulgarian club”, the source concluded.
The coming weeks will be very crucial for both Kalu and Botev Plovdiv as they weigh up their options before the new season gets underway.
A move abroad could offer the former Bordeaux winger another opportunity to continue rebuilding his career, while staying at Botev Plovdiv would allow him to build on the momentum he generated last season.
If he can maintain the level he showed last season and produce another strong campaign, the winger could put himself back in contention for a return to the Super Eagles under Eric Chelle.
With Nigeria set to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in September, consistent performances at club level could earn Kalu another chance to wear the green and white once again.
