Stephen Chinedu: Nigeria-Croatia striker joins Pakhtakor on loan from Surkhon

Nigeria-Croatia centre-forward Stephen Chinedu has joined Uzbek champions Pakhtakor Tashkent on loan from Superliga rivals Surkhon.

The 26-year-old moves across the Uzbekistan top flight after a prolific start to the 2026 season, in which he has scored six goals and provided one assist in 11 league appearances. He has also added three goals and an assist in three Uzbekistan Cup outings, underlining his impact in domestic competition.

Chinedu, born in Kano and standing at 1.88m, is a right-footed striker who has taken a leading role for Surkhon since arriving there in January 2026 on a free transfer from Serbian side Radnik. His current contract with Pakhtakor runs until 31 December 2026, following confirmation of the temporary switch.

Before his move to Uzbekistan, Chinedu built his career in the Balkans, featuring for clubs including Radnik and Radnicki 1923 in Serbia and Siroki Brijeg, NK Solin and Hajduk Split II in the Croatian and Bosnian systems. Earlier in his career he also spent time with NK Dugopolje and NK Neretvanac after leaving FK Dinamo.

Chinedus recent form has made him one of the most productive forwards in the Superliga this term, with a high goal involvement rate across league and cup matches. His loan move gives Pakhtakor an in-form attacking option for the remainder of the 2026 campaign.

The deal sees Chinedu officially registered as a Pakhtakor player on a loan transfer from Surkhon until the end of the calendar year.