Nigeria left-back Godfrey Stephen joins Isloch from Irtysh on free transfer

Nigeria left-back Godfrey Stephen has joined Belarusian club Isloch from Kazakhstan side Irtysh on a free transfer, strengthening the Vysheyshaya Liga team with a 26-year-old defender.

The move was completed on 8 September 2026 and brings Stephen to Belarus after his spell in Kazakhstan’s Premier Liga. He now begins the next stage of his career in a different domestic competition, moving between two leagues in Eastern Europe.

Stephen’s position is left-back, giving Isloch a player whose recognised role is on the defensive flank. His arrival adds an experienced option in that position as the club continues its campaign in Belarus’ top flight.

The transfer also marks a change in the footballing environment for the Nigerian, who leaves Irtysh after representing the Kazakhstan-based club. The free move allows Isloch to secure his services without a transfer fee, while Stephen takes up a new challenge outside Kazakhstan.

Isloch compete in the Vysheyshaya Liga, Belarus’ highest division, while Irtysh play in the Premier Liga. The switch therefore sees Stephen move from one national top-flight competition to another, with both clubs operating in leagues outside his native Nigeria.

At 26, Stephen arrives at Isloch during what can be considered an established stage of his playing career. His nationality and role make him a Nigerian defensive addition to a Belarusian squad, while the change of club gives him the opportunity to continue his career in a new league.

The move was recorded with a market value of €150,000, although Isloch paid no transfer fee for the defender. That figure provides context to a deal completed without compensation changing hands between the two clubs.

Stephen’s transfer from Irtysh to Isloch was completed on 8 September 2026.