Akpe Victory: FC Basel sign Nigerian defender from Zalaegerszeg in 3m deal

FC Basel have completed the signing of Nigerian centre-back Akpe Victory from Hungarian side Zalaegerszeg in a permanent transfer worth 3 million.

Victory, 19, joins the Swiss Super League club after a rapid rise over the past 18 months, moving into a league with higher visibility while retaining a market value currently listed at 2 million. He will wear the number 55 shirt at Basel and is registered as a central defender.

Born in Abuja on 19 July 2006, the 1.95m defender moves to Switzerland from Zalaegerszeg, where he has been under contract since January 2026. His value increased sharply during his time in Hungary, reflecting his growing reputation, with a jump from 100,000 in late 2025 to 2 million by May 2026.

Before arriving in Hungary, Victory played for FK Banga Gargzdai in Lithuania, joining the club in February 2025. During his spell there, his valuation doubled within a few months, underlining his progress in senior European football after leaving his previous, undisclosed club.

Victory is listed primarily as a centre-back and is described simply as a defender in his main position, underlining Basels intention to strengthen the heart of their back line with a physically imposing option. He also joins as a full Nigerian international at club level, with his nationality and development adding further diversity to Basels defensive options.

The transfer into the Swiss Super League marks Victorys third move in less than two years and continues a swift ascent from Lithuanias top flight to Hungarys NB I and now to one of Switzerlands leading clubs.