Transfer Turmoil: Samuel Emem Eduok’s Move to Espérance de Tunis in Jeopardy
Nigerian striker Samuel Emem Eduok’s transfer to Espérance de Tunis has been thrown into uncertainty amid claims of contractual complications and conflicting transfer rights.
Eduok, who currently plays for Dolphins FC in Nigeria, signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the Tunisian giants last Tuesday, becoming what was expected to be their fifth signing of the transfer window following the arrivals of Ghrab, Bejaoui, Cruz, and Ben Choug.
However, reliable sources suggest that the deal may not be as clear-cut as initially believed. According to emerging reports, Eduok may have previously signed a pre-contract with Norwegian club Sarpsborg 08. This has raised legal and ethical concerns over the legitimacy of his commitment to Espérance.
To add another layer of complexity, Eduok’s transfer rights are reportedly still under the control of the A&B Football Academy, which is said to have yet to give full approval for his international move. Without the green light from the academy, Espérance risk facing FIFA sanctions or contract invalidation if the transfer proceeds without all parties’ consent.
This development follows a growing pattern of contractual disputes involving young African talents navigating international transfers. A similar issue is said to involve Eduok’s Togolese teammate, Joseph Douhadji, who is also entangled in a pre-contract situation with Sarpsborg 08.
For now, Espérance de Tunis must carefully assess the legal implications of finalizing Eduok’s deal, especially as the club seeks to reinforce its squad for domestic and continental competitions. Should the complications persist, the club may be forced to cancel the contract to avoid a potential transfer dispute.
No official comment has yet been made by Espérance, Dolphins FC, or Sarpsborg 08, but sources close to the matter suggest negotiations are ongoing to clarify Eduok’s contractual standing.
The situation highlights the growing need for transparency and regulatory oversight in player transfers, particularly in cases involving young African prospects moving to clubs abroad.
