Super Eagles target wanted by Bundesliga newboys Paderborn & Copenhagen

Paderborn, newly promoted to the Bundesliga, have joined Danish champions FC Copenhagen in the race to sign Southampton winger Sam Edozie, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 23-year-old has attracted interest from several clubs across Europe as the August transfer window enters its final stretch, according to reports from England. Paderborn and Copenhagen have both made official enquiries to Southampton to learn the conditions of a possible deal, while a number of English Championship clubs are also keeping tabs on his availability.

Edozie is under contract at St Mary's until June 2027, but a summer exit is becoming increasingly likely after a frustrating 2025-26 campaign. The winger managed only two starts in all competitions as he slipped down the pecking order.

Southampton are also reshaping their squad after signing Lewis Dobbin earlier this summer and are willing to reduce their wage bill by allowing fringe players to leave.

Despite his limited role last season, Edozie remains a highly rated attacker. His successful loan spell at Belgian side Anderlecht during the 2024-25 season, where he scored four goals and provided four assists, convinced several clubs that he could still develop into a top-level winger.

Super Eagles hopes could depend on Paderborn transfer

A move away from Southampton could also bring Edozie closer to an international future with Nigeria.

Born in Lewisham, South London, the winger, who's full name is Samuel Ikechukwu Edozie, is eligible to represent the Super Eagles through his Nigerian father. Although he has played for England at Under-18, Under-19 and Under-20 levels, including the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, he has never featured for the senior Three Lions.

Under FIFA regulations, Edozie is still free to complete a one-time switch of international allegiance to Nigeria.

The Nigeria Football Federation has identified him as one of its leading diaspora targets because of his pace, direct dribbling and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations. Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola once described him as a player with “special quality” because of the way he attacks the penalty area.

Regular first-team football is now viewed as the biggest step towards earning a Super Eagles invitation. Paderborn can offer him the chance to prove himself in Germany's top flight after winning promotion, while Copenhagen present the attraction of European football through the UEFA Conference League.

Whichever club wins the race may not only revive Edozie's club career but could also move him much closer to wearing Nigeria's green and white shirt for the first time.