Raphael Onyedika: Nigeria and Club Brugge midfielder linked with Al-Ittihad move

Nigeria international Raphael Onyedika of Club Brugge is being linked with a summer move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, with the defensive midfielder emerging as a potential high-profile arrival in Jeddah. The 25-year-old is under contract with the Belgian champions until 30 June 2027, meaning any deal would require a substantial fee, with his current valuation standing at around €23m.

Al-Ittihad are exploring midfield options ahead of the new campaign, and Onyedika’s combination of European experience and title-winning pedigree has placed him on their shortlist. The Saudi club are looking to strengthen a core that has already been heavily reshaped by recent investment in overseas players, and see the Belgian Pro League as a proven market for talent.

Onyedika joined Club Brugge from Danish side Midtjylland in August 2022, in a transfer worth €9.5m, and has since established himself as a regular in Belgium’s top flight. He has made close to 100 appearances in the Jupiler Pro League and featured regularly in the Champions League, underlining his experience at both domestic and European level.

Last season, the midfielder played a central role as Brugge secured the Belgian title, adding to a growing honours list that also includes the Belgian Cup and the Belgian Super Cup. His performances have contributed to a steady rise in his market value since arriving in Belgium.

With two years remaining on his deal at Jan Breydelstadion, Club Brugge are under no pressure to sell, and any approach from Al-Ittihad would have to reflect Onyedika’s status as a key figure in the midfield of the reigning Belgian champions.