Former Salernitana striker Simeon Tochukwu Nwankwo is in negotiations with CFR Cluj as the Nigerian forward edges closer to a return to professional football.
The 33-year-old, who left Salernitana in July after his contract expired, has been without a club for two months but now looks set to continue his career in Romania.
According to Africafoot, the Liga I side are discussing a one-year deal with Nwankwo, which would also include an option for an additional season.
Widely known as “Simy,” the forward has already given his approval in principle to the move, and an agreement could be finalised before the close of the summer transfer window.
CFR Cluj, one of Romania’s most successful clubs, are seeking to bolster their attacking options as they chase domestic honours and look to maintain their place among the country’s leading teams.
Last season with Salernitana, Nwankwo featured in 27 matches across all competitions, scoring six goals and registering two assists.
Despite limited opportunities in Italy’s top flight, he remained a reliable squad player and showcased the finishing instincts that have defined much of his career.
Born and trained in Nigeria, Nwankwo began his European journey with Portuguese sides Gil Vicente and Portimonense before earning a move to Crotone in Italy.
It was there that he made his name, becoming the club’s all-time top scorer and playing a pivotal role in their Serie A campaigns.
His exploits with Crotone earned him international recognition with Nigeria and later a transfer to Salernitana.
Though now in the later stages of his career, Nwankwo retains a market value of around €400,000, according to Transfermarkt, reflecting both his experience and potential impact for a club like CFR Cluj.
The Romanian side see him as a short-term but valuable addition, capable of bringing both goals and leadership to the squad.
CFR Cluj are preparing for a crucial league fixture against rivals Steaua Bucharest in the eighth round of the Romanian championship.
While focus remains on that contest, attention is also turning to whether Nwankwo will be available to strengthen the squad in the coming weeks.
For the Nigerian, the move offers an opportunity to reignite his career in a new league and add another chapter to a journey that has already taken him from Nigeria to Portugal and Italy.
If finalised, his transfer to Cluj could mark a fresh challenge in Eastern Europe, where he will aim to extend his reputation as a proven and dependable striker.
