Noah Atubolu set for permanent Eintracht Frankfurt move

Noah Atubolu is closing in on a permanent transfer to Eintracht Frankfurt after impressing during his loan spell with the Bundesliga club.

The 24-year-old German goalkeeper of Nigerian origin has produced a strong season, performances which have reportedly persuaded Frankfurt to make a long-term commitment to him.

According to Florian Plettenberg, the purchase option included in Atubolu’s loan agreement will be triggered automatically if two conditions are met. Eintracht Frankfurt must secure their Bundesliga status, while the goalkeeper must reach the number of appearances specified in his contract.

Atubolu is expected to fulfil the appearance requirement this month. If that happens and Frankfurt avoid relegation, the permanent transfer will cost the club between 12 and 13 million euros.

The deal would be followed by a long-term contract for the goalkeeper. That would underline Frankfurt’s confidence in his performances and their intention to settle the future of a key position.

The outcome now depends largely on Eintracht Frankfurt remaining in the Bundesliga and Atubolu completing the required number of matches. His move would not be finalised solely on the basis of his appearances, with the club’s league status also forming part of the agreement.

Atubolu remains under contract with SC Fribourg until 30 June 2028. His current estimated market value is 18 million euros, which is above the potential transfer fee being discussed for his move to Frankfurt.

This season, he has played in nine matches in all competitions, conceding 19 goals and keeping one clean sheet. His annual salary in Germany is 1,130,000 euros, equivalent to 734,500,000 FCFA.

Eintracht Frankfurt’s next fixture will be their ninth league match of the season against SC Paderborn. Their position in the Bundesliga will be central to the decision over whether Atubolu’s transfer becomes permanent.