Aribo, Onyekuru, Olayinka lead 2026/27 Eagles free agents

July 26, 2026 2:08 am

Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo headlines a list of Nigeria internationals still searching for new clubs ahead of the 2026/27 season, alongside winger Henry Onyekuru and forward Peter Olayinka, with several other established names also yet to find a fresh home following the expiry of their contracts, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Aribo, aged 30, became a free agent after his contract at Southampton, where he returned following a loan spell at Leicester City, expired without a fresh deal being agreed.

The versatile midfielder, who has previously played for Rangers and Charlton Athletic, remains one of the more attractive options on the market given his experience across midfield and attack in the Premier League and Scottish football.

Onyekuru is available after Turkish Super Lig side Genclerbirligi terminated his contract by mutual agreement, with the 29-year-old set to receive a settlement of about €940,000.

He had failed to score or register an assist in 19 appearances during a difficult season in Ankara, having joined the club on a free transfer from Saudi side Al-Fayha in the summer of 2025. Onyekuru previously won the Turkish Super Lig title with Galatasaray and also had spells with Everton, Anderlecht and Monaco.

Olayinka, aged 30, is searching for a new club after leaving Cypriot side APOEL Nicosia, having previously played for Red Star Belgrade in Serbia, Zulte Waregem in Belgium and Slavia Prague in the Czech Republic, and has attracted interest from clubs in Turkey, Belgium and Slovakia.

David Okereke, whose contract with Cremonese has expired, is in talks with Serie B side Sampdoria as he looks to revive his career in Italy following a difficult spell that included a relegation with the Italian club.

William Agada, whose stint with Spanish side Real Zaragoza has come to an end, is reported to be close to completing a return to Israel’s Ligat Ha’Al for a second spell in the league, having previously established himself there before a stint in Major League Soccer.

Okechukwu Azubuike, one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the 2016 Rio Olympics, is also without a club after leaving Turkish side Erzurumspor, and is expected to explore opportunities in the Middle East. Josh Maja remains available after his contract with West Bromwich Albion expired, with reports linking the 27-year-old with Watford, Bristol City and Stoke City as he seeks his next move in the Championship.

Peter Akinbo

Peter, who has been covering sports for PUNCH for close to two years, focuses on combat sports reporting, special features and human angle stories

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