Seven-time UEFA Champions League winners AC Milan have reopened talks with Club Brugge and Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika over a potential summer transfer in June, Kick Off Nigeria has exclusively learned.
The Rossoneri had previously pursued the 23-year-old midfielder last summer but failed to reach an agreement, as Club Brugge demanded €24 million—a valuation Milan couldn’t meet. However, with Technical Director Geoffrey Moncada, a long-time admirer, leading the charge, the club has reignited its interest.
AC Milan’s Offer and Club Brugge’s Stance
Onyedika still has two years left on his contract, but AC Milan has tabled an initial offer of €18 million, hoping to secure the Nigerian international on a five-year contract.
A source from CAA Steller, the agency representing Onyedika, confirmed to The Nerve Africa that Milan has made its first official approach. However, Club Brugge is unlikely to accept the €18 million bid, as they value Onyedika significantly higher.
“He (Onyedika) is high on AC Milan’s interest list, and they have made their pursuit clear to both the player and his representatives. They have initially tabled €18 million, but Club Brugge will likely turn it down because they value him much higher. Raphael is keen on the move, but it will depend on whether the two clubs reach an agreement,” the source exclusively told Kick Off Nigeria.
Other Clubs Monitoring Onyedika
Besides AC Milan, Onyedika has also attracted interest from other European giants, including:
- Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) (France)
- FC Porto (Portugal)
- Bayern Munich (Germany)
With multiple clubs in the race, Club Brugge could demand a higher transfer fee in what is shaping up to be a competitive bidding war.
Onyedika’s Career and International Profile
The Nigerian joined Club Brugge from Danish side Midtjylland in 2022 and is currently in his third season with the Belgian club. The versatile midfielder has made 139 appearances, scoring six goals and providing four assists. He previously played for Fredericia in Denmark before his move to Belgium.
On the international stage, Onyedika made his Super Eagles debut in 2022 and has since earned 12 caps. He is part of Nigeria’s squad set to face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
With AC Milan looking to strengthen their midfield, all eyes will be on whether they increase their bid or face stiff competition from other top European clubs for Onyedika’s signature.